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September 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Bush Fruit Harvester Acquired By Horticultural Research Center 1

Reglone Users Urged To Use Protective Equipment 3

Alberta Feed Industry Conference 4

Overwintering Bees In Alberta 6

Sainfoin Disease Survey Underway 9

Botulism In Ducks 10

Vegetables And Frost 11

Handling Home Garden Potatoes At Harvest Time 13

Avoiding Spoilage In Pickles 15

ADC Assistant Manager Farm Lending Appointed 18

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BUSH FRUIT HARVESTER ACQUIRED BY
HORTICULTURAL RESEARCH CENTER

Front view of harvester as it goes
over a saskatoon bush.

Staff at the Alberta Horticultural Re-
search Center in Brooks have successfully harvested
saskatoon and Nanking cherries with an over-the-
row bush fruit harvester that the center recently
acquired from Blueberry Equipment Incorporated
of South Haven, Michigan, U.S.A.

Up to now the expansion of native fruit
crop production in Alberta has been severely limited
by the lack of a cost-efficient method of harvesting
it. A semi-mechanical, hand-held vibrator-picker was
used until recently to harvest saskatoons and other bush fruit crops like red and black curr-
ants, Nanking cherries and sandcherries.

Dr. S. Mahadeva, who is head of the
center's environmental horticulture section, reports
that as the harvester travels down a row of bush
fruit, nylon "fingers", mounted on rotary heads,
gently shake the bushes with a firm, but careful
back-and-forth action. As the berries fall they are
collecting by pivoting "fish-scale" plates (near the
bottom of the machine) as they move around the
base of the bushes. Side conveyor belts then carry
the fruit to the rear of the harvester where a blast of
air removes the leaves and other debris before the relatively clean berries fall gently into
boxes or crates.

Inside the "shaking" chamber. Note
the nylon "fingers", the "fish scale"
plates at the bottom and the conveyor
belts on each side.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403) 427-21 21

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Bush Fruit Harvester Acquired By Horticultural Research Center (cont'd)

Dr. Mahadeva says neither the "shaker" arms nor the pivoting plates damage the

bushes.

The machine is 19 feet long, nine feet
and 10 inches wide and 1 1 feet and four inches high.
And it consists of two conveyor belts, two blowers
and two spouts that deposit the fruit into two boxes
or crates.

According to Dr. Mahadeva, the machine
can harvest fruit bushes that are about 10 feet tall,
and it is powered by hydraulic motors in each of its
four wheels. The fact that each wheel is independ-

The chute and the harvested
ently powered means that the machine can operate saskatoons.

with ease in irregularly-contoured fields as well as at different bush heights.

Dr. Mahadeva says "We have effectively harvested saskatoons and Nanking cherr-
ies at the center as well as fruit for commercial growers located in the Carstairs-Bowden area
and as far north as Manning in the Peace River region. And we expect to evaluate the mach-
ine's performance in harvesting other bush fruit like Mongolian cherries, black currants and
possibly gooseberries."

Dr. Mahadeva also reports that the harvester has already been used to pick rose
hips, which it apparently did very efficiently.

-30-

September 5, 1983 J
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REGLONE USERS URGED TO USE PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

People who use the herbicide, Reglone, as a dessicant for canola and legumes
should use proper pesticide safety equipment when mixing it. This warning comes from
Dr. Moe Hussain, pesticide issues coordinator with Alberta Agriculture.

He points out that Reglone contains diquat as the active ingredient, and that it
can cause poisoning. "Because diquat is fairly toxic, continuous exposure to it can cause
severe headaches, nausea and, in extreme cases, diarrhea and vomiting," Dr. Hussain says.
"I am particularly concerned about the person who does the mixing of the herbicide since he
is the one who will be subjected to the highest exposure. Severe diquat poisoning could put
him in bed for up to two weeks."

Unfortunately, there is no fast treatment for severe diquat poisoning, and an
individual who is accidentally poisoned will have to bear the pain. However, he should seek
medical attention because a physician can provide some relief and he can flush the chem-
ical out of the victim's body.

Dr. Hussain strongly advises people who are mixing Reglone to wear a clean
coverall, a respirator with cartridges designed to absorb pesticides, a pair of rubber gloves and
a pair of goggles. "Should any diquat get on the skin or in the eyes, the individual should
promptly wash off the skin and flush out the eyes with plenty of clean water, he says. This
procedure is very important because Reglone can irritate the skin and cause eye damage. "If
any symptoms should develop, go immediately to the emergency unit of your local hospital
for treatment," says Dr. Hussain.

- 30-

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

igitized by the Internet

Archive

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https://archive.org/details/agrinews00albe_21

September 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA FEED INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

The annual Alberta Feed Industry Conference will be held at the Convention Inn
in Edmonton on September 21 - 22.

Designed for feed industry personnel, veterinarians, agricultural extension, re-
search and financial personnel and people associated with agribusiness, the conference will
open with a nutrition workshop. It will begin with a 1 5-minute presentation that focuses on
some of the problems that can occur when too much emphasis is placed on percentages in
livestock feeding programs as opposed to an animal's actual requirements. And workshop
participants will be divided into groups of eight to 10 to work on a variety of case histories
involving beef and dairy cattle, swine and poultry problems that resulted from having placed
too much emphasis on percentages and from other causes.

The afternoon session will cover the livestock, grain and the freight rate outlook
and technical, structural and service trends. There will also be a panel discussion.

The second day will offer a choice of two all-day workshops. The first is designed
for feed industry sales staff and will cover territorial management, communication skills and
interview skills. The second workshop will feature an overview of the manager's role in times

of economic uncertainty. And emphasis will be on helping workshop participants to more
adequately define their own role and on the need for role definition. Some time will also be
spent on the differing perceptions of management as seen by senior management, subordin-
ates, etc.

The registration fee schedule is as follows:-

. Nutrition Workshop, including lunch -$30
. Outlook Session, including lunch -$35

(cont'd)

(403) 427-21 21

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Alberta Feed Industry Conference (cont'd)

. Management Workshop, including breakfast and lunch — $55
* Sales Workshop, including breakfast and lunch — $55
. Banquet (September 21 ) —$20

An alternative would be to register for the nutrition workshop, outlook session,
one of the two workshops on September 22 and the banquet for only $85. A registration fee
of more than $50 will include a copy of the conference proceedings.

The Alberta Feed Industry Conference is sponsored by the Alberta Division of the
Canadian Feed Industry Association, the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association, the Univer-
sity of Alberta's Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry and Faculty of Extension and Alberta
Agriculture.

Further information on the conference can be obtained by telephoning 432-3029
during the day or by calling 432-31 1 6 in the evenings.

- 30 -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OVERWINTERING BEES IN ALBERTA

Bee hives in Alberta being overwintered in specially constructed buildings.
As fall approaches Alberta's beekeepers must decide whether to kill or overwinter

their bees.

Alberta Agriculture's supervisor of apiculture, Donald MacDonald, reports that
approximately 25 per cent of the province's 170,000 hives were overwintered last year and
that the survival rate was high. And he says that a survey taken of a number of the bee-
keepers shows that the overwintered hives out-produced the packaged bee hives by a cons-
iderable amount. For this reason Mr. MacDonald expects that there will be more hives over-
wintered this year than was the case last year. Apart from the extra honey produced, over-
wintering is an attractive economic proposition because it costs $27 to replace every hive that
is killed off in the fall.

- (cont'd) -

Phone: (403) 427-21 21

Liberia

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Overwintering Bees In Alberta (cont'd)

In Alberta bee hives may be overwintered out-of-doors or in specially constructed,
environmentally-controlled buildings. However, regardless of which method is used, prepara-
tions must be made before winter sets in.

Mr. MacDonald advises beekeepers to overwinter only strong hives because the
weak ones usually die off early in the spring. And he says weak hives can be either combined
with strong hives or the bees in the weak hives can be killed in the fall. He also emphasizes it
is essential to begin making wintering preparations in early September.

At this time hives that are to be overwintered out-of-doors in two brood chambers
must be provided with a sugar-syrup mixture, made of two parts of sugar to one part of
water, until each hive weighs 140 pounds. If they are to be overwintered indoors in one
brood chamber, the syrup should be provided until each hive weighs 85 pounds.

In addition to being provided with adequate feed, each hive should be headed by
a young, vigorous queen that is not more than a year old, Mr. MacDonald says. Ideally, all
hives that are to be carried through the winter should have been requeened sometime during
the past season.

Choice of the overwintering site for hives that are going to be overwintered out-
of-doors is also important. The area should provide shelter from the prevailing winds and
allow the hives to face south so that they can get the benefit of the winter sun. Spring access-
ibility to the hives is also important. Hence, low lying areas should be avoided because of
flooding during the spring thaw.

Mr. MacDonald recommends either wrapping hives that are to be overwintered
with insulating material in mid-October, or moving them into a specially constructed over-
wintering facility. And he points out that because the hives are "on their own" from mid-

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Overwintering Bees In Alberta (cont'd) -

October until the middle of the following March, the preparations that a beekeeper makes in
the fall are crucial to the winter survival of his hives.

Mr. MacDonald also advises anyone who would like more information on over-
wintering bees to contact Alberta Agriculture's Apiculture Office, Box 415, Falher, Alberta,
TOH 1MO or to read chapter 11 (Fall and Winter Management) of the Alberta Beekeeping
Manual (Agdex 616-4). It can be obtained by writing to the Publications Office, Alberta
Agriculture, 7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30-

Phone: (403) 427-21 21

Liberia

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

September 5, 1 983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SAINFOIN DISEASE SURVEY UNDERWAY

Staff at the Alberta Horticultural Research Center in Brooks are carrying out
a survey of more than 30 fields of sainfoin in southern Alberta to find out which
diseases are most prevalent in sainfoin crops and to try to find out what is causing
"sainfoin decline".

Sainfoin is a perennial forage legume that is grown on a limited scale in
Alberta, and which is most prevalent in southern areas. It is an excellent forage
that does not cause bloating in ruminant animals and that has good drought resis-
tance and good winterhardiness. In spite of these advantages, however, the forage
has not caught on with many farmers because of a stand decline problem of
unknown origin.

Dr. Ronald Howard, who with Dr. Sheau-Fang Hwang, is heading the survey,
reports that the Alberta disease closely resembles a crown rot disease that has been
identified in irrigated sainfoin in Montana, which is caused by a species of the
Fusarium fungus and several species of bacteria. In Alberta several species of fungi
and bacteria have also been isolated in the diseased plant tissues. Dr. Howard says,
"While the crown rot seems to be a major cause of 'sainfoin decline' in this prov-
ince cultural practices also seems to be important causal factors".

-30-

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

}

September 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BOTULISM IN DUCKS

Domestic or wild ducks that are found dead near a lake at this time of
year may have succumbed to botulism, otherwise known as limberneck.

According to the head of Alberta Agriculture's poultry disease section,
Dr. J. A. Hanson, Clostridium botulinum, which causes botulism, survives in dead
and decaying vegetation on lake shores, and the toxin becomes concentrated in
invertebrates which are eaten by the ducks.

Botulism in ducks produces paralysis of the legs and wings as well as
paralysis of the neck muscles. The neck appears to be limp and the head is either
lying over the shoulder or extended along the ground.

Dr. Hanson says there is no known practical treatment for botulism in
ducks. However, he recommends removing surviving domestic ducks from the
infected area, and, if necessary, feeding and watering them by hand.

-30-

Ahexto

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-2 1 2 1 Print Media Branch

September 5, 1983

1 1

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VEGETABLES AND FROST

You can protect garden plants with paper or blankets against frost for a day or
two, but the paper or blankets should be removed each day by mid-morning. Plastic will not

provide any protection.

Another way to protect plants against a light frost is to turn on the sprinkler just
before sunrise, but care must be taken not to oversaturate the soil, particularly if this method
of protection is used over a period of several days. Even though the plants are covered with
ice, they will not sustain injury if they are allowed to thaw out slowly.

Vine vegetables are the most susceptible of any of the vegetables to frost injury.
They will be severely injured or killed if the temperature drops to almost 0° C. Only the
mature fruit on these plants can sustain one or two degrees of frost without being injured.

Tomato, egg and pepper plants are slightly more tolerant of frost than vine plants.
When the frost is light, damage is usually confined to the upper portion of the plants. Of this
group of plants, peppers are the most frost tolerant. They will survive two to three degrees of
frost.

A light frost will injure sweet corn, but the cobs will still be usable. In fact, they
can be left on the plant as long as any part of it is alive.

Most leafy vegetables can tolerate two or three degrees of frost, but swiss chard
and spinach can tolerate up to five degrees.

Cole crops such as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and brussels sprouts, are very
tolerant of frost, and their flavor is reported to actually improve with exposure to some frost.
However, it is possible for their flavor to become so strong that it is no longer palatable.

- (cont'd) -

/dlberfa

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Vegetables And Frost (cont'd)

Apart from onions, root crops can tolerate the highest amount of frost of all veg-
etables because their edible parts are below the ground. In fact, they can remain in the
ground as long as the soil does not begin to freeze. Onions, on the other hand, should be
harvested as soon as it starts to freeze.

In the event of a frost of more than five degrees or a snow fall, the vegetables that
are salvagable should be left in the garden until the temperature warms up and allows them to
thaw out slowly. The worst thing to do would be to take them indoors and thaw them out
quickly.

The above information comes from an Alberta Agriculture publication entitled
"Home Vegetable Gardening in Alberta, which, in addition to containing information on
growing vegetables, tells how to store them, how to winterize the garden and what vegetables
can be seeded in the fall.

"Home Vegetable Gardening in Alberta" (Agdex 250/20-3) can be obtained from
district agriculturists or by writing to the Publications Office, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. 0'
Donoghue Building, 7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30-

September 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HANDLING HOME GARDEN POTATOES AT HARVEST TIME

Because potatoes react very poorly to rough handling, the bags or containers that
are used to transport them during harvest time from the garden or field to the storage area
should be handled carefully. In fact, Dr. leuan Evans of Alberta Agriculture recommends
handling them almost as carefully as a bag of apples or tomatoes.

He also says that if polyethelene bags or garbage bags are used to transport the
potatoes, they should be left open to allow for air circulation unless they are perforated.
And he does not recommend storing the potatoes in these bags.

Dr. Evan suggests the following procedure for maximizing the quality and storab-
ility of potatoes.

Harvest them when their tops have died back or been killed by a frost, and
when the soil has cooled down, usually between the middle of September and early October.
This will give the potatoes as much time as possible to mature. Immature potatoes are more
prone than those that are mature to bruising and skinning, both of which make them much
more susceptible to storage rot.

Dig the potatoes on a dull day. Even a short period of exposure to the sun
may cause sunburn or greening. And to avoid greening, do not leave the potatoes lying on
the ground even on a cloudy day, or exposed to artificial light for any longer than is necess-
ary. Apart from giving them a bitter taste, greening, which is caused by an increase in the
potato's glycoalkaloid content, can be toxic.

Use either a fork or a spade to dig the hills, being very careful not to cut or
bruise the potatoes. Put aside any that do get cut or are otherwise damaged for immediate
use.

- (cont'd) -

Phone: (403) 427-21 21

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

-2-

Handling Home Garden Potatoes At Harvest Time (cont'd)

Place potatoes as they are dug beside the hills. Do not throw them.

Always harvest potatoes when the temperature is above freezing. Those that
are subjected to even a few degrees of frost will break down completely and rot.

And keep the storage temperature at about 5° C. If it falls to near the freez-
ing mark, the potatoes will develop internal blackening, and if it goes too high, and the ventil-
ation is poor, the potatoes will "smother" from lack of oxygen and turn a blackish color
internally.

- 30 -

September 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AVOIDING SPOILAGE IN PICKLES

Making pickles is fun and a very satisfying way of preserving much of the delicious
garden produce that is available at this time of year.

Ideally, garden produce that is used for pickles should be processed within 24
hours of having been picked. If this is not possible, it should be kept in a cool, well ventil-
ated place until it can be processed. In other words, perfect fruit and perfect vegetables are
needed for perfect pickles.

However, according to Alberta Agriculture's food and nutrition specialist at
Airdrie, Suzanne Tenold, a large proportion of home-made pickles spoil and have to be dis-
carded. "In many cases this is because the person making them does not know enough about
the products she is using or about the process involved," says Ms. Tenold.

For example, it is only possible to make good cucumber pickles out of pickling
cucumbers. The salad variety, which are large and have a thick skin, often produce soft
pickles with tough skins.

Ms. Tenold says cucumber blossoms (stems) must be removed when the cucum-
bers are being prepared for pickling because they harbor yeasts that can make the pickles
soft. And she says to be sure that no soil gets into the pickles because it too can cause
spoilage.

Since vinegar replaces the acid that is produced by pickles during the fermenta-
tion process, it plays an important part in pickle making. Ms. Tenold explains that it is necess-
ary to provide enough vinegar to kill bacteria, yeasts and molds, but that there should not be
too much acid in the vinegar because it will sour the pickles. She points out that commercial
vinegar comes in two strengths — 5 per cent and 7 per cent — and that home-made vinegar
should never be used for pickles because its acid content is not known.

- (cont'd) -

>dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Avoiding Spoilage In Pickles (cont'd)

If the acid content of vinegar is not specified in a pickle recipe, either strength can
be used, but according to Ms. Tenold, the amount of vinegar called for in the recipe should
never be reduced.

She points out that pickle recipes have been developed to produce a product that
has the correct acid content to prevent the growth of microorganisms, and that the solution
called for by a recipe should never be diluted. "People who prefer a less sour pickle can add
sugar," she says.

Ms. Tenold also recommends not heating the pickle liquid very long before it will
be needed and simmering it while the pickles are being prepared. This is because the strength
of the vinegar may be reduced by excessive heating.

Salt is another of the main ingredients of pickles. It acts as both a flavoring agent
and as a preservative, and the amount recommended in the recipe should not be changed.
Too much salt will toughen and shrivel the pickles, while too little will cause them to go soft.
Unfortunately, there is no salt substitute that can be used in pickles.

Ms. Tenold says the amount of salt called for by a recipe will depend upon the
type of pickles being made. Fermented weak pickles, for example, call for a weak brine so
that the formation of lactic acid can take place rapidly. Quick-process pickles, on the other
hand, require a strong brine to draw out any excess water before the vinegar is added.

"Pickling Salt", says Ms. Tenold, "should be used for pickles. Free-running table
salt can cause a cloudy brine because it has been treated with an anti-caking agent. And salt
of an unknown purity should never be used for pickles".

Water too can influence the quality of pickles. Ideally, soft water should be used
because the minerals in hard water can soften and darken the pickles. However, if only hard

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Avoiding Spoilage In Pickles (cont'd)

water is available, many of the unwanted minerals can be eliminated by boiling the water for
15 minutes, allowing it to stand for 24 hours, and then carefully skimming off any scum that
may have formed on the surface. The water should be ladled out of the containder with care
so that the sediment at the bottom will not be disturbed.

A convenient alternative to the above procedure is to purchase distilled water.

"Remember", says Ms. Tenold, "the best way to avoid spoilage in pickles is to
prevent the conditions that cause it."

30 -

Phone: (403) 427-21 21

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

September 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADC ASSISTANT MANAGER FARM LENDING APPOINTED

Randy Niven, manager of farm lending with the Agricultural Devel-
opment Corporation (ADC), has announced the appointment of Ken Ebeling to the
position of assistant manager of farm lending.

Mr. Ebeling brings extensive experience in agricultural lending to his
new position. He has been employed by the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce,
the Commercial Credit Corporation, the Federal Business Development Bank and
the Bank of British Columbia. And he has spent the last two years with ADC as a
senior business analyst dealing with agribusiness loans and complex farm lending
proposals.

Mr. Ebeling is married, has three children and will continue to reside in

Camrose.

- 30 -

Phone: (403) 427-21 21

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Wind Turbine Research 1

Preventing Shrinkage In Cattle 3

Pules For The Sound Use Of Credit 5

Crop Yields And Economics Of Liming Acid Soils 8

"Do-lt-Yourself" Home Insulation 10

Hints On Storing Vegetables 12

Goat Artificial Insemination Course At Olds 14

Fall — The Other Time For Weed Control 15

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WIND TURBINE RESEARCH

Approximately 300 people attended a field demonstration that was held just
north of the Lethbridge research station to provide an overview of the research that is being
carried out on the use of wind turbines and on the various types that are being manufactured
today.

The research was initiated last year by Alberta Agriculture's drainage branch in
cooperation with the Solar Wind Energy Research Program of the Alberta Research Council
and Jensen Engineering Ltd of Olds. It is designed to evaluate the technical and economic
potential of using wind turbines for pumping water under southern Alberta conditions, and
it is being funded by Farming for the Future, the Alberta/Canada Energy Resources Research
Fund, Alberta Agriculture and TransAlta Utilities.

Representatives from Alberta Agriculture, the Alberta Research Council, Jensen
Engineering Ltd and TransAlta Utilities gave brief presentations at the demonstration, which
covered the project background, site design and turbine selection, data acquisition and
evaluation, and the electrical power generated by wind turbines. Each manufacturer gave a
short description of his machine's performance, its cost, etc and answered questions during
the remainder of the afternoon.

Brent Paterson, head of Alberta Agriculture's drainage branch, reports that six
direct pumping turbines have been installed at the site where the demonstration was held,
and that each turbine has its own sump and water supply. The turbines have been monitored
continuously throughout the irrigation season and will continue to be monitored during the
summer of 1984 to evaluate pumping rates, etc. that are related to wind conditions. The
wind direction, its speed and constancy, the operating characteristics of the representative
wind turbines and a correlation of their characteristics with wind conditions are all being

- (cont'd) -

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

(403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

■

-2-

Wind Turbine Research (cont'd)

monitored. According to Mr. Paterson, there is also an electrical turbine on the site that is
being used to evaluate potential wind power production.

Anyone who is interested in seeing the various types of turbines that are currently
available operating under actual field conditions should contact Brent Paterson at 329-5515
or Wayne Ulmer at 329-5514.

-30-

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PREVENTING SHRINKAGE IN CATTLE

Shrinkage represents a large proportion of a cattleman's production costs.

As the district agriculturist for Rocky Mountain House, Phil Dixon, points out,

calves that are selling for $70 per hundredweight will bring only $68.60 if they have sustained
a 2 per cent weight loss, while those that have sustained a 4 per cent loss will bring only
$67.20.

He also points out that there are two kinds of shrinkage: excretory shrinkage and
tissue shrinkage. "Excretory shrinkage", he says, "is a loss of 'belly fill', and is not as serious
as tissue shrinkage because the cattle will replace any weight loss after having been back on
feed and water for a few days." Tissue shrinkage, on the other hand, represents a decrease in
the actual carcass weight of an animal. And according to Mr. Dixon, research has shown that
it takes a week or more for an animal to regain this weight.

Shrinkage usually occurs when cattle are rounded up and trucked to another loca-
tion, and most of the shrinkage occurs during the first part of the haul. Mr Dixon reports
that the loss of weight actually begins to slow down as distance and time increase.

He says tests carried out in the United States showed that cattle hauled 320 miles
lost an average of 38 pounds from tissue shrinkage alone. Although the shrinkage increased
as the distance and time increased, it increased at a much slower rate than during the first
part of the haul.

According to Mr. Dixon, when grass-fed cattle are denied feed and water over-
night, they will shrink about 4 per cent, while grain-fed animals will shrink from 2.5 to 3 per
cent. He says this shrinkage often occurs at auction markets, and that when the animals are
provided with feed and water, they still lose about 2 per cent of their weight. However, as he
points out, a 2 per cent weight loss is better than 4 per cent weight loss.

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone: (403)427-2121

Preventing Shrinkage In Cattle (cont'd)

Excitement is apparently one of the main causes of shrinkage, and it is very
prevalent in range cattle. They will lose about 4 per cent of their weight, and this is espec-
ially true of calves that have just been weaned.

Here is how Mr. Dixon recommends avoiding shrinkage.

Make sure the loading chutes, holding pens, scales and trucks are all working

ahead of time.

. Avoid rough handling of the animals.

Water and feed the cattle animals if they are to be kept in the pens overnight
before shipping. Water is even more important than feed.

Give the cattle good, dry hay just before they are shipped.

Do not overload or underload the truck. Overloading will make the animals
nervous and uneasy, while underloading will enable them to move around too much.

Provide protection from the cold.

And provide good, fresh hay and water at rest stops on a long haul.

- 30 -

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RULES FOR THE SOUND USE OF CREDIT

A knowledge of the basic rules for the sound use of credit has become a must in
today's society where it is virtually, impossible for most farmers to accumulate sufficient
savings to purchase the assets they require for a profitable farm business operation.

According to Doug Barlund of Alberta Agriculture's farm business management
branch, the rules for the sound use of credit can be categorized under the three R's — risk,
returns and repayment.

The rules for risk are:

Limit borrowing for enterprises that you do not fully understand. And
experiment on a small scale before expanding through the use of
borrowed funds.

Keep debts in line with your capital investment. In addition to checking
the relationship between total assets and total liabilities, watch the dis-
tribution of current or short term assets and liabilities in order to main-
tain a strong liquid position.
. Maintain adequate insurance coverage to reduce risk and protect the farm
business.

Keep debts as low as possible without reducing your efficiency. Use loans
for purposes that will bring the largest return per dollar invested and that
will do so in the shortest time to reduce risks.
The rules for returns are:

Borrow primarily for purposes that will increase your net income.

- (cont'd) -

Liberia

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403)427-2121

Print Media Branch

Rules For The Sound Use Of Credit (cont'd)

. Study farm price trends. Estimate your ability to repay loans on a
realistic and conservative basis over the term of the loan.
Keep your debts in line with your probable income. Maintain a
reserve repayment capacity, if possible to meet emergencies. Apply
income received from productive assets purchased by a loan on a
regular basis against the loan.

Maintain good records so that you have the factual information for
making sound management decisions, and monitoring changes in
your financial position.

Schedule the repayment term of a loan when borrowing for depreci-
able assets to coincide with the expected life of the asset.
The rules for repayment are:

. Develop a definite repayment program that fits your cash flow.
Evaluate your total credit requirements rather than evaluating them
on a "piecemeal" basis, and then plan and arrange financing before you
actually need the funds.
. Do not use too many credit sources. As your record of repayment
grows, your lenders will be more willing to service your credit needs.
When arranging for credit:

Shop around. Select a dependable lender who is willing and able to
provide good terms and sound financial advice.
Be businesslike, frank and fair with the lender. Meet loan payments
promptly. Whenever you are unable to do so, discuss your situation

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Rules For The Sound Use Of Credit (cont'd)

as far in advance of the due date as possible. Explain what you are
able to do and outline how you plan to bring your account up-to-date.
Prepare the background information necessary to support your loan
application. It should include your net worth statement, a past and
projected income statement and a cash flow budget. Most lending
institutions offer information and assistance in preparing these
documents.

Mr. Barlund advises farmers to ask themselves the question: "Will it Pay?" before
making changes to their farm businesses, regardless of whether the changes would involve
expanding an existing enterprise or developing a new one. He points out that by carrying out
a thorough analysis of any proposed changes, including a partial budget and a cash flow state-
ment, a farmer will be in a position to know in his own mind whether the changes would be
worthwhile before he approaches a lender for the necessary funds.

To help Alberta farmers to do such an analysis and to help them to choose the
most appropriate credit lender for their specific needs, the farm business management
branch has compiled a "Financial Management Package" and an up-to-date list of sources of
credit that are available through chartered banks, treasury branches, credit unions, the federal
Farm Credit Corporation and the provincial Agricultural Development Corporation. The list
of creditors is contained in a publication entitled "Sources of Farm Business Credit".

The "Financial Management Package" (Agdex 810) and "Sources of Farm Bus-
iness Credit" (Agdex 832) can be obtained from district agricultursits, the Farm Business
Management Branch, Box 2000, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1 PO or by writing to the Publications
Office, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton,

Alberta, T6H 5T6.

- 30

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CROP YIELDS AND ECONOMICS OF LIMING ACID SOILS

Although lime has been added to acidic soils for centuries in some parts of the
world, it is a relatively new practice in Alberta.

Even though there has been much less research done on liming than on fertilizing
in Western Canada, it is known that yield increases from liming depend upon the degree of
soil acidity, the kind of crop that is to be grown and the general growing conditions of the
area. Average yield increases for wheat, canola and barley grown on land which required lime
have ranged from 0.24 to 0.79 tonnes per hectare when lime was applied. The increase in
barley yields has usually been greater than that of wheat or canola. And yield increases are
also usually greater in the gray soil zone than in either the dark brown or the thin black soil
zones.

The return on money invested in liming depends upon the size of the yield
increase, the value of the crop, the cost of the lime and the interest rate charged for money
borrowed. Since most of these factors vary from one farm to another and from one year to
another, it is impossible to come up with a calculation that will apply to all situations.

The length of time the effect of an application of lime will last is important when
considering the economics of liming. It will mainly depend upon the buffer capacity of the
soil; management practices, especially when it comes to the application of ammonium-based
nitrogen fertilizers; and the extent to which cations (mainly calcium) are removed from the
soil by cropping and leaching.

- (cont'd) -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Crop Yields And Economics Of Liming Acid Soils (cont'd)

Data on the average yield of various crops grown in acid soils in the dark brown,
gray and thin black soils zones before and after liming, yield increases and net returns from
liming specific crops; the longevity of lime treatments under various conditions plus other
related information are contained in the publication "Crop Yields and Economics of Liming
Acid Soils" (Agdex 534-2). It can be obtained from district agriculturists or by writing to the
Publications Office, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 113 Street,
Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30-

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"DO-IT-YOURSELF" HOME INSULATION

With winter just around the corner, many people are starting to think about
reducing the heat loss in their houses and, even more importantly, about reducing their heat-
ing bills.

Alberta Energy and Natural Resources has published several publications on "do-
it-yourself" home insulation. One deals with weather stripping and caulking to prevent air
leakage. Did you know that air leakage can account for one-third of the total amount of heat
lost in an average home? And that the cost of heating the cold air that replaces the warm air
that leaks out can be anywhere from $100 to $200 every year. Also, if the moisture that
is carried out in the warm air condenses inside the walls or in an attic, it can do serious
structural damage to the house.

Two other publications deal with the exterior and interior methods of insulating
a basement. One third of the total heat loss can occur through the floor and walls of an
uninsulated basement. Even if it is used only as a storage area, the heat from ducts and pipes
and from the main floor will escape through the uninsulated basement floor and walls as well
as through cracks or holes in the joist space. This loss of heat could amount to $1 00 or $200
a year. Earth around a basement is not a good insulator, and concrete actually conducts heat
out of the house.

Another publication, published by Alberta Agriculture, gives detailed instructions
and provides illustrations that show the various methods of installing movable window insula-
tion. Most windows are poorly sealed, and allow air leakages to occur between the sash and
the glass, between the sash and the jamb and between the jamb and the window opening. In

- (cont'd) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

1 1

-2-

"Do-lt-Yourself" Home insulation (cont'd)

fact, air leakage losses through and around windows are claimed to account for from 6 to 25
per cent of total heat losses in Canadian homes.

The publications referred to above are called "How to Weatherstrip and Caulk
Your Home" (ENR No. 1/1 7— 4), "How to Insulate Your Basement — Exterior Method"
(ENR No. 1/1 7 - No.2), "How to Insulate Your Basement - Interior Method (ENR No. 1/1 7
— No. 3) and "Movable Window Insulation" (Homedex 1700-76-5). They can all be obtained
from Alberta Agriculture's district offices or by writing to the Publications Office, Alberta
Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30-

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HINTS ON STORING VEGETABLES

Anyone who plans to store his or her vegetables this winter, and who has not
stored vegetables before, will find the following information, compiled by Paul Ragan of the
Alberta Horticultural Research Center in Brooks, very useful.

The first thing to remember is to harvest the vegetables during the coolest part of
the day, which is usually in the early morning. Because they contain less field heat at this
time, they will not heat up the storage area.

Carrots, beets, parsnips and rutabagas should all be stored at a temperature that is
as close to 0 ° C as possible and at a high relative humidity. They can be put into perforated
plastic bags or into garbage bags that have been perforated to keep the humidity high or they
can be buried in moist sand or slightly moistened vermiculite. Parsnips can even be left in the
ground all winter and dug the following spring, providing that they are well mulched with
straw or leaves. This practice increases their sugar content.

Cabbage, cauliflower, celery and Chinese cabbage should be stored at 0° C and a
high relative humidity. Cabbages store best when they are pulled up and replanted in sand.
However, since they have a peculiar odor, it would probably be best not to store them in the
house.

Onions should be stored at 4° to 5 °C and at a low relative humidity. If the hum-
idity is too high, the onions will start to root and sprout.

Pumpkins and winter squash should be stored at from 10 °to 15° C and at a low
relative humidity. If they are stored at a lower temperature than that recommended they
will deteriorate and rot.

- (cont'd) -

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

(403)427-2121

Print Media Branch

-2-

Hints On Storing Vegetables (cont'd)

Green tomatoes should also be stored at a temperature of from 10° to 15° C and
at high relative humidity. If they are stored at a lower temperature than 10° C, they will
ripen abnormally and rot. Ripening can be hastened by bringing a few tomatoes at a time
into room temperature.

Potatoes should be stored at a temperature of from 4° to 7° C and at a high
relative humidity. The storage area should be dark to prevent the potatoes from turning
green and to prevent the starch from turning into sugar.

Finally, never store apples or pears with vegetables because they give off a chem-
ical that may reduce the quality of the vegetables and may even cause them to spoil.

- 30 -

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GOAT ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION COURSE AT OLDS

The Alberta Goat Breeders Association, in conjunction with Alberta Agriculture,
is holding an artificial insemination (Al) course at Olds College, Olds, on September 24.

The course is intended for people who have a basic understanding of goat
nutrition and reproduction. In addition to reviewing general information on nutrition and
reproduction, participants will learn how to handle goat semen, and they will actually in-
seminate goats that have been provided for the course.

Ron Weisenburger, nutrition specialist, Dr. Barry Callaghan, reproductive
specialist and Ernie Maynard, genetic specialist, all of Alberta Agriculture, will be the course
instructors.

With the gradual expansion of the dairy goat industry in Alberta, out-of-season
breeding and breeding for improvement in type and production are becoming increasingly
necessary for the industry to reach its potential. And the course is designed to answer
questions that many goat breeders have on these topics.

The cost of the course is $50, which is payable upon arrival.

Additional information can be obtained from Beth Little, Box 785, Cochrane,
Alberta, TOL 0W0 (Telephone: 932-3573).

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

September 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FALL - THE OTHER TIME FOR WEED CONTROL

Weed control is traditionally associated with spring and summer, but the fall is
also a good time for this occupation, says Walter Yarish of Alberta Agriculture's weed control
branch.

Following is a list of some of the main weeds that can be controlled at this time
of the year. Winter annuals and biennials such as stinkweek, flixweed and scentless chamom-
ile in both stubble and summerfallow fields.

Narrow-leaved hawk's-beard in newly seeded alfalfa fields and other broadleaved
weeds and grasses in established alfalfa fields.

Perennial weeds such as Canada thistle, perennial sow thistle and quack grass on
cultivated land, but more specifically in areas that are difficult to approach during the grow-
ing season.

Since the advantages of fall weed control vary from one district to another be-
cause of cropping patterns and climatic and soil conditions, Mr. Yarish suggests checking
proposed fall weed control programs with local district agriculturists.

-30-

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Alberta Food Marketing Advisory Committee Established 1

Alaskan Trade Mission A Success 2

Federal Court Ruling Affects Futures Market Speculators 4

Alberta Agricultural Real Estate Situation 6

Facts About Agricultural Lime 8

Farm Land Leasing Rates For 1983 10

Feed Test Early This Year 12

Preparing The Garden For Winter 14

Livestock Investigation Supervisor Appointed 16

Dairy Farm Specialist Appointed 17

ydlbcrta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

September 19, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA FOOD MARKETING ADVISORY COMMITTEE ESTABLISHED

Alberta's minister of agriculture, LeRoy Fjordbotten, has established the Alberta
Food Marketing Advisory Committee to provide a greater emphasis on marketing in the
development of his agricultural policies and programs.

The committee will be responsible for identifying current issues in the market
place, marketing trends and potential marketing opportunities. It will also make recommend-
ations that will have an impact on the future development of Alberta's agricultural and food
industries, and it will indicate potential market place response to current agricultural produc-
tion issues.

This unique advisory committee will be made up of senior executives from the
major retail and food service companies, and it will bring together, for the first time, repres-
entatives from the province's food market place.

"It is my hope", says Mr. Fjordbotten "that the activities and recommendations
of the Alberta Food Marketing Advisory Committee will help to provide valuable and innov-
ative leadership for the future development of the province's agricultural and food products
industries. It is designed to be a vital element in encouraging the greater use of a market-
oriented approach by these industries, which in addition to aiding their growth will better
serve Alberta's retail and consumer needs."

Phone: (403)427-2121

alberta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALASKAN TRADE MISSION A SUCCESS

Provincial government officials and representatives of Alberta's livestock and food
industries, who recently returned from a trade mission to Alaska, are optimistic about the
opportunities they found there for exporting both purebred and commercial livestock, bred
dairy heifers, pork and beef and such other food products as processed meats, pasta, cheese,
honey, French fries, etc.

The trade mission consisted of Alberta Agriculture's trade director, Dave Rous,
who led the party; trade director, Wilf Walker; a vice-president of the Alberta Grocers Asso-
ciation, Jack Shippobotham; a representative of Canada Packer's International Trade Divi-
sion, Peter Pastyr; a representative of Beef Booster, Roman Hrytsak; and a director of the
Alberta Hereford Association, Rodney Elvestad.

The Alberta party met with the State of Alaska's officials, including the newly
appointed director of agriculture, Bill Heim, to discuss areas in agriculture for future co-
operation. Then the livestock representatives and Mr. Rous visited the ranches of a number
of potential customers for Alberta's purebred and commercial cattle. And they conducted
livestock seminars in Homer, Palmer, Delta Junction and Fairbanks to tell Alaska cattle
producers the benefits they could expect from adopting some of Alberta's livestock pro-
grams.

Mr. Rous says that Alaska has only fledging meat and livestock industries at the
present time, but that, by working with the Alaskans and evaluating their needs, Alberta live-
stock producers should be able to reap some substantial benefits in the long-term. In fact, he
believes that firms like the Beef Booster and purebred Hereford and other cattle breeders
should be able to provide Alaska with the basis for a blossoming meat and livestock industry.

(cont'd) -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Alaskan Trade Mission A Success (cont'd)

Mr. Walker and the food industry representatives visited Alaskans involved in the
construction and management areas of a new packing plant that is being built in Palmer.
Here they discovered that Alaska needs a feedlot or feedlots to finish its cattle for slaughter,
and Mr. Walker believes that this plant will be the key to Alaska's livestock industry as well as
the key to a potential market for Alberta's cattle breeders.

While visiting a dairy plant, Mr. Walker was told that the Alaskans are going to
need from 3,000 to 4,000 bred dairy heifers over the next three years.

He and the food representatives also contacted retail and food service buyers and
found several of these companies were interested in receiving information and price quota-
tions on Alberta beef and Alberta pork.

An important meeting was held between the Albertans and Alaskan officials who
handle the United States Department of Agriculture meat inspections. They furnished the
Alberta representatives with a list of 20 places in Alaska where these inspections can take
place. And they intimated that there should be no problem in exporting Canadian products
to Alaska in the future, providing that the proper authorities are advised well in advance of
shipments and the documentation is complete and accurate.

There was one thing that amazed the Alberta group. It was the large acreage that
is devoted to the raising of lettuce and strawberries in Alaska. They wondered why these
crops could not be grown just as successfully in Alberta.

In summary, Mr. Rous says "There are certainly opportunities for Albertans to
export livestock, meat and other food products to Alaska." And he pointed out that these
ventures could be made profitable by bringing back such Alaskan products as halibut, salmon
and king crab.

- 30 -

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEDERAL COURT RULING AFFECTS FUTURES MARKET SPECULATORS

Those who "speculate" in the futures market will be interested in a recent Federal
Court of Canada ruling which has, to some degree, changed the rules of the game.

The case dealt with the deductibility of interest on borrowed funds and other
costs associated with a commodity transaction that yielded a capital gain. And according to
Alberta Agriculture's tax specialist, Merle Good, the court ruling contradicts Revenue
Canada's historic stand on this subject as outlined in its Interpretation Bulletin IT346R.

The bulletin states that purchasers of commodities fall into one of two categories:
those who engage in a business that involves commodities and those who are "speculators".

Mr. Good explains that a person who is deemed to be a "speculator" has the
option of having his transaction treated as either income or as capital in nature, providing
that he uses the same method of reporting every year. The Department of National Revenue
states that interest paid on funds that have been borrowed to finance a transaction that yields
a capital gain is neither deductible for tax purposes nor allowed to be added to the original
cost of the contract.

Individuals who acquire commodities in connection with their businesses must
include their commodity profits in their regular income, and the interest on borrowed funds is
considered to be a current deductible expense.

In the case involved in the recent federal court ruling - Jeffrey Sterling vs the
Queen - Mr. Sterling had added the interest and safe keeping charges to the cost of a gold
contract which he had bought and which had yielded a capital gain when it was sold. When
the Department of National Revenue disallowed the addition of these costs, he appealed to
the Federal Court of Canada, which ruled that the Department of National Revenue's
position as outlined in its Interpretation Bulletin was not sustainable under the law.

(cont'd)

hone: (403)427-2121

ydlborta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Federal Court Ruling Affects Futures Market Speculators (cont'd)

Mr. Good reports that the court's reasoning was based on a number of precedents
that contradicted the Department of National Revenue's position as well as on its own inter-
pretation of bulletins that deal with the cost of property in other circumstances. And he says
the judge ruled that the cost incurred in the Sterling transaction was not only the purchase
price of the gold. It included the interest on the borrowed funds and the safe-keeping charges.

A question that still has to be resolved is whether Mr. Sterling could have treated
the interest cost incurred in his transaction as a current expense that was deductible in the
same way as is allowed in the purchase of stocks and bonds. According to Mr. Good, the feel-
ing within the accounting profession is that another appeal and another court case will be
necessary before this question can be answered.

Mr. Good says "The Sterling case certainly puts quite a different slant on the
computation of capital gains and losses for income tax purposes. Even though the Depart-
ment of National Revenue may appeal this case, and even though it may be successful in over-
turning it, taxpayers may wish to protect their positions in the meantime by filing notices of
objection to recent assessments."

However, Mr. Good strongly recommends that anyone who is considering this
strategy seek the advice of a professional accountant before embarking upon it.

- 30 -

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL REAL ESTATE SITUATION

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500

400-

300-

200

100

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ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL REAL ESTATE VALUES

For a little more than a decade now, Alberta farmers have seen agricultural real
estate values increase at an annual rate of approximately 20 per cent.

Peter Woloshyn, resource economist with Alberta Agriculture's resource econ-
omics branch, reports that from 1971 to 1982 the average value of agricultural real estate in
Alberta increased by 601 per cent in absolute dollar terms (not deflated to 1971 constant
dollars). He points out, however, that when the average values in each year are converted
into 1971 dollars, the picture is very different. In terms of 1971 dollars the average value
per acre increased from $67 in 1971 to $179 in 1982, which represents an increase of 166 per
cent.

However, as Mr. Woloshyn points out, the increase in land values has slowed down
substantially since 1981 when the economic downturn began.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Alberta Agricultural Real Estate Situation (cont'd)

He reports that agricultural real estate values. increased by 6 per cent in 1982, but
have decreased by 3.3 and 5.4 per cent respectively in the first and second quarters of 1983
compared with the first and second quarters of 1982. And he points out that while farmers
could, in the past, count on the increasing value of their land when applying for a loan (it
made it easier to get a loan), their ability to use land as a hedge against inflation is slightly less
now. On the other hand, those starting out in a farming career and established farmers who
want to expand will find it relatively easier to purchase farm land from the point of view
of its value alone.

Mr. Woloshyn says the number of acres that are transferred in a given period is
another key indicator of the Alberta agricultural real estate situation. He reports that the
number of acres transferred in 1982 dropped by just over 19 per cent (-22.9, -26.2, -16.4
and -5.7 for the four quarters respectively). However, both the first and the second quarters
of 1983 have shown an increase in the number of acres transferred — 2.3 and 16.1 per cent
respectively. "This situation", Mr. Woloshyn says, "shows an improvement in terms of activ-
ity, but it should be remembered that these percentage increases are based on the extremely
poor transfer activity that took place in 1982".

Both average land values and the number of acres transferred are available for
each CLI (Canada Land Inventory) class on a quarterly basis in a publication entitled "The
Alberta Agricultural Real Estate Situation". It and additional information on the real estate
situation in Alberta can be obtained from Peter Woloshyn, Resource Economics Branch,
Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta,
T6H 5T6 (Telephone: 427-4026).

- 30 -

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL REAL ESTATE SITUATION

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YEAR

ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL REAL ESTATE VALUES

For a little more than a decade now, Alberta farmers have seen agricultural real
estate values increase at an annual rate of approximately 20 per cent.

However, as Mr. Woloshyn points out, the increase in land values has slowed down
substantially since 1981 when the economic downturn began.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Alberta Agricultural Real Estate Situation (cont'd)

He reports that agricultural real estate values increased by 6 percent in 1982, but
have decreased by 3.3 and 5.4 per cent respectively in the first and second quarters of 1983
compared with the first and second quarters of 1982. And he points out that while farmers
could, in the past, count on the increasing value of their land when applying for a loan (it
made it easier to get a loan), their ability to use land as a hedge against inflation is slightly less
now. On the other hand, those starting out in a farming career and established farmers who
want to expand will find it relatively easier to purchase farm land from the point of view
of its value alone.

Mr. Woloshyn says the number of acres that are transferred in a given period is
another key indicator of the Alberta agricultural real estate situation. He reports that the
number of acres transferred in 1982 dropped by just over 19 per cent (-22.9, -26.2, -16.4
and -5.7 for the four quarters respectively). However, both the first and the second quarters
of 1983 have shown an increase in the number of acres transferred — 2.3 and 16.1 percent
respectively. "This situation", Mr. Woloshyn says, "shows an improvement in terms of activ-
ity, but it should be remembered that these percentage increases are based on the extremely
poor transfer activity that took place in 1982".

Both average land values and the number of acres transferred are available for
each CLI (Canada Land Inventory) class on a quarterly basis in a publication entitled "The
Alberta Agricultural Real Estate Situation". It and additional information on t lie real estate
situation in Alberta can be obtained from Peter Woloshyn, Resource Economics Branch,
Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta,
T6H 5T6 (Telephone: 427-4026).

- 30 -

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FACTS ABOUT AGRICULTURAL LIME

Did you know that the higher the quality of agricultural lime, the less you will
have to use to neutralize acidic soil? Also, the finer it is, the less you will have to use, but
more importantly, the quicker it will react with the soil. These factors are important because
agricultural lime is not cheap and it is not cheap to transport.

Phil Dixon, district agriculturist at Rocky Mountain House, explains that Effect-
ive Neutralizing Value (ENV) is the term that is used to indicate the quality of agricultural
lime. It takes into account both purity and fineness, and the higher the ENV, the higher the
quality of the lime.

According to Mr. Dixon, pure calcium carbonate limestone is given a percentage
rating of 100. However, this rating can vary greatly, depending upon which quarry and which
layer of the mountain it came from.

Mr. Dixon also says that the lime that is fine enough to pass through a 60-mesh
screen is given a rating of 100 per cent. If only 30 to 60 per cent of it can be passed
through a 60-mesh screen, it is given a rating of 50 per cent and so on down to a rating of 5
per cent, which means that none of it will pass through a 10-mesh screen. "The ENV", says
Mr. Dixon, "is arrived at by multiplying the percentage of purity by the percentage of
fineness."

And he points out that agricultural lime must have an ENV of at least 70 per cent
(dry weight basis) to qualify for Alberta Agriculture's Agricultural Lime Freight Assistance
Program. Also, anyone who is applying for assistance under this program must have a soil
test done and get a Lime Requirement Report from the Alberta Soil and Feed Testing Lab-
oratory in Edmonton or from an authorized private soil testing laboratory.

(cont'd)

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Facts About Agricultural Lime (cont'd)

This report gives the pH level of the soil and the tonnes of lime per acre that
would be required to raise the pH to either 6.0 or 6.5. Mr. Dixon says the optimum pH for
most crops is 6.5, but that a farmer may be satisfied with a lower or higher pH level for
economic or other reasons.

The report also contains a list of the quarries that sell agricultural lime, and it
gives the ENV rating for each quarry's product.

Mr. Dixon recommends that farmers who are thinking of liming their fields
this fall allow two to three weeks between the time they submit their soil for testing and the
time that they will receive the results. "And, remember," he says, "under the Agricultural
Lime Freight Assistance Program, the farmer pays the first $5.50 per tonne of the actual
freight cost from the quarry to the farm and Alberta Agriculture will pay roughly 80 per cent
of the remainder of the freight costs."

- 30 -

CORRECTION (August 29, 1983. issue of Agri-News)

The title of the article "Regional 4-H Specialist Appointed for Northwestern
Alberta" should read "Regional 4-H Specialist Appointed for Northeastern Alberta"; NOT
Northwestern Alberta. And the first sentence should read "The head of Alberta Agriculture's
4 H branch, Ted Youck, has announced that Rod MacMillan is the new regional 4-H specialist
for the northeastern region of the province"; NOT the northwestern region of the province.

-30-

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FARM LAND LEASING RATES FOR 1983

Farm land leasing rates in Alberta have decreased over the past 12 months,
according to the results of an annual survey that was conducted between May and July of this
year.

Peggy Johnson of Alberta Agriculture's farm business management branch says
the decrease in land rental charges reflects a reduced demand for rental land, which is prob-
ably the result of increased farm input costs, reduced prospective grain prices and the antic-
ipation by farmers last spring of only moderate crop yields.

Ms. Johnson reports that 60 per cent of the land rented this year was rented on a
cash basis, revealing an upward trend in cash rental agreements, which was off-set by a similar
reduction in crop-share agreements. She points out that this upward trend in cash rentals,
which leaves the tenant with all the risk, may be an indication that non-farming landowners
do not want to share the risk with tenants during hard economic times.

The following table illustrates the decrease in land rental charges that has taken
place during the past year.

Cost Per Acre of Rented Land for 1982 and 1983

Most Common Range of Charges Most Common
Charges in 1982 in 1983 Charges in 1983

South - irrigated (with equipment) $80 - $225 $195 -$205

- irrigated (without equipment) $65 - $90 $21 - $ 80 $ 50 - $ 60

■ non irrigated $50 - $60 $10-$ 50 $ 30 - $ 40

Central $25 - $35 $12-$ 60 $ 25 - $ 35

North $25 -$30 $13 $ 45 $15-$ 25

(cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

1 1

- 2 -

Farm Lending Leasing Rates For 1983 (cont'd)

Ms. Johnson says the range in rental charges shown in the table can be explained by
the facts that the quality and quantity of land being rented varies; that rental rates vary
according to the profitability of the crops being grown, and that dependable, established
tenants often get a lower rate than other tenants. Also, a cash rent may be higher or lower
than current rates, depending upon the length of the lease.

Ms. Johnson says that a decrease in land rental charges is evident in crop-share
agreements as well. She points out that the number of people with 50:50 landlord-tenant
share agreements has decreased over the past year, while the number with a 33.3-66.6 share
agreement has increased. This change, which has resulted in a greater portion of the crop
going to the tenant, may have been caused by the decrease in the value of the land ov/ned
by the landlord due to a general decline in land values and by an increase in the input costs
that are paid by the tenant.

The table below illustrates the change in landlord-tenant crop-share agreements.

Landlord-Tenant Share 1982 1983

33% • 66% 67% 87%

40% - 60% 4% 5%

50% -50% 11% 3%

Others 18% 5%

According to Ms. Johnson, the remainder of the land rental agreements contain
various combinations of expenses and profits which are split between the landlord and the
tenant.

Further information on the survey can be obtained from district agriculturists or
from the Farm Business Management Branch, Alberta Agriculture, Box 2000, Olds, Alberta,
TOM 1PO.

-30 -

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEED TEST EARLY THIS YEAR

Livestock producers are advised to submit their feed samples for analysis as early
as possible to avoid the rush that develops every year in the late fall and early winter.

Samples should always be taken before the feeding period begins so that the
analysis results can be used to formulate a ration that will meet the requirement of the
animals concerned. And it is important to remember that feed testing makes the best use of
the available feed by showing what supplements are needed and the level of supplementation
that is required. Underfeeding livestock will limit their production, while overfeeding is a
waste of resources.

Ron Weisenburger, head of animal nutrition with Alberta Agriculture, reports that
this summer's adverse weather conditions are expected to have reduced the feeding value of
much of this year's hay. For example, July's heavy rains delayed the harvesting of hay crops
in many parts of the province, while drought and weathering were problems in other areas.

Mr. Weisenburger advises farmers sampling baled forage to use a core sampling
tool which has been especially designed for this job. It can be obtained from district agricul-
turists. Mr. Weisenburger also recommends taking samples from at least 1 5 different bales or
places in the stack and putting them directly into a polyethylene sample bag to avoid the loss
of leaves.

However, when sampling loose or cut forage or silage, it is best to take the sample
by hand because it is difficult to obtain one with a core sampling tool. Again, samples should
be taken from at least 1 5 locations in the stack or silo. They should be put into a pail, thor-
oughly mixed and a sample from the pail put into a polyethylene sample bag.

The most convenient and effective way of sampling grain at this time of year is to
collect a small amount in a pail from each truck load as the grain is being augered into the
bin.

ydlbcrfa

- (cont'd) -

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Feed Test Early This Year (cont'd)

Mr. We isen burger advises farmers who wish to sample grain that is already in a bin
to use a bin probe when possible uncollect the sample. It can probably be obtained from a
district agriculturist or from a grain elevator agent. Samples should be taken from at least 1 5
locations in the bin, put into a pail and thoroughly mixed before a sample from the pail is put
into a polyethylene sample bag.

Mr. Weisen burger points out that there are five or six privately owned feed testing
laboratories in Alberta that do a good job of feed analysis. He also points out that farmers
who plan to have their feed analysed at Alberta Agriculture's soil and feed testing laboratory
in Edmonton can pick up a sample kit, etc. from their district agriculturist.

And anyone who would like help to develop a feeding program for his livestock
can use Alberta Agriculture's ration advisory service. It is run by highly qualified nutrition-
ists and information on its use can also be obtained from district agriculturists.

-30-

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PREPARING THE GARDEN FOR WINTER

The time to prepare your garden for the winter is when the trees and shrubs have
shed their leaves, says Paul Ragan of the Alberta Horticultural Research Center in Brooks.

He recommends starting by raking up the leaves. Those that are soft can be dug
into the soil, providing there are not too many of them, but leaves that have a shiny surface
and evergreen needles should not be incorporated into the soil. The needles should be dis-
posed of, but the leaves can be either put on the compost heap or otherwise disposed of.

Next clean out leaves and other litter that may have accumulated in fence corners,
along the base of a fence and in the crowns of shrubs. Mr. Ragan says this practice is import-
ant because the leaves and other litter could provide ideal spots for harmful garden pests to
overwinter.

Now remove all the annual flowers and vegetables from flowerbeds, borders and
the vegetable garden. They too can be put on the compost heap, providing they are not dis-
eased. If they are diseased dispose of them.

Again, providing the plants did not suffer from root diseases or pests during the
past growing season, they can be cut off at ground level and their roots left to decompose in
the soil. The roots will increase the soil's organic matter content and improve its texture.

Herbaceous perennials should be cut back to within 7 or 1 0 cm (3 or 4 inches) of
the soil surface. Then in the spring, when the new basal buds are easier to identify, the plants
can be cut back to ground level.

When digging over annual flowerbeds, borders and the vegetable garden, Mr. Ragan
recommends using a spade, digging to its full depth and leaving the soil in big lumps. Since
the frost will break the lumps down during the winter and spring, all that will be necessary
next spring will be to fork over the soil.

(cont'd)

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Preparing The Garden For Winter (cont'd)

A garden fork, as opposed to a spade, should be used to dig the soil in beds and
borders that contain trees, shrubs or herbaceous perennials. Dig as deeply as possible without
damaging the roots or plants growing in the bed. And be careful not to leave any roots
exposed to the air.

Last, but by no means least, make sure that the garden is reasonably moist as it
goes into the winter. "Ideally", Mr. Ragan says "all perennials should be watered periodically
in the fall to prevent them from drying out during the winter." This is particularly likely to
happen if the snow cover gets blown off the garden or during an early spring when strong sun-
shine, increasing temperatures and the wind combine to dessicate the plants.

Trees, shrubs, and perennials can all be watered until just before freeze-up.
Mr. Ragan points out the aim of such a watering program should be to have the soil hold the
optimum amount of moisture without becoming saturated from lack of drainage. He says
the result should be a moist soil that contains plenty of air in its pore spaces.

-30-

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LIVESTOCK INVESTIGATION SUPERVISOR APPOINTED

Ken Spiller, head of Alberta Agriculture's regulatory services and
feeder association branch, has announced the appointment of Wayne Daye to the
position of livestock investigation supervisor for the Calgary area. He will be work-
ing out of the Airdrie office.

Mr. Daye brings extensive experience in investigational work to his new
position. As a member of the RCMP since 1960, he has been stationed throughout
the province, and he attained the rank of sergeant in charge of the Strathmore high-
way patrol unit. From 1970 to 1978, he worked as a livestock investigator with
the general investigation section in Lethbridge and in Edmonton.

Mr. Daye is married, has two children and will continue to reside in
Strathmore.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

September 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DAIRY FARM SPECIALIST APPOINTED

Lloyd Johnston, head of Alberta Agriculture's dairy farm inspection
branch, has announced the appointment of Robert C. Pilling to the position of
dairy farm specialist.

He will be located in Edmonton and will be responsible for raw milk
quality control in the Edmonton area. He will also act as a resource person to
dairy farmers and departmental staff in dairy farm production technology
transfer.

Mr. Pilling is an animal science graduate from Brigham Young Univers-
ity in the U.S.A. and has had experience in managing 1 ,000-cow dairy farms in
both California and New Mexico.

He was most recently employed by Alberta Agriculture's dairy produc-
tion branch where he coordinated the Somatic Cell Pilot Project and helped pro-
ducers who had production difficulties or who were restructuring their operations
because of financial or quota constraints.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Tobacco Rattle Virus Found In A Sample Of Alberta Potatoes 1

Warble Infestations Drop Again In Alberta 4

Specialty Crop Situation 5

The Isolation And Cloning Of An Ice-Forming Gene 6

Fall Versus Spring Nitrogen Fertilizer Applications 8

"Autumn Shed" In Evergreens 10

Deadline For Field Crop Entries For The Royal 12

Catfacing Of Tomatoes 14

Farm Safety Poster And Essay Contest Winners 15

Poultry Specialist Appointed To Lethbridge Area 17

District Home Economist Appointed To Sangudo 18

ydlbcrta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TOBBACO RATTLE VIRUS FOUND IN A SAMPLE
OF ALBERTA POTATOES

A cross section of potatoes infected with the Tobacco Rattle Virus.

Staff at the Alberta Horticultural Research Center (AHRC) in Brooks are solicit-
ing the cooperation of home garden potato growers, market gardeners and commercial potato
growers in Alberta in their attempt to find out whether the Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) has
gained a foothold in the province.

Dr. Ronald Howard, plant pathologist at the center, reports that the first known
cases in Canada of TRV in potatoes grown out-of-doors were confirmed earlier this year in
Alberta and Saskatchewan. He says samples of potatoes from two home gardens, one near
Hughenden, Alberta, and the other near Biggar, Saskatchewan, were found to be infected
with TRV when analyzed at the federal research station in Vancouver.

According to Dr. Howard, the samples had been originally submitted to the plant
diagnostic laboratories in Brooks and Regina for the diagnosis of an internal brown spotting

(cont'd!

Phone: (403)427-2121

Ahexia

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

2 -

Tobacco Rattle Virus Found In A Sample Of Alberta Potatoes (cont'd)

symptom in the flesh of the potatoes. He points out that, while these may be isolated cases,
the incidence of TRV on the Prairies is concerning plant pathologists because of the potential
destructiveness of the disease in commercial potato fields. And he says if TRV were to be-
come established in Canada, it could seriously affect the viability of the country's seed pota-
toes as well as the fresh and processing potato industries.

Although TRV can produce stem mottling and, alternately, internal necrosis
(tissue browning) in infected tubers, the internal necrosis is the only symptom that is known
to occur in North America. Dr. Howard says the internal necrosis can vary in type and sever-
ity, depending upon the degree of infection, the time the infection became established, the
strain of virus involved, the potato cultivar involved and the environmental conditions. He
explains that the primary symptoms of the disease may be lacking in the initial stage of the
infection or they may range from prominent, alternate concentric rings of live and necrotic
tissue to small, necrotic flecks in the tuber flesh. He says some cracking and various degrees
of tuber malformation may follow if the infection started early in the growing season, and
that the symptoms may or may not include surface lesions.

Secondary tuber symptoms, which are those that originated from infected seed
pieces, may include internal flecking and the malformation of the potatoes. Also the plants
may be stunted and have small, puckered leaves. However, there are frequently no visible
symptoms above the ground and even the potatoes themselves do not always display external
symptoms. And Dr. Howard says not all infected potatoes will exhibit internal necrosis
symptoms.

Those whose cooperation is being sought in this survey are asked to send potatoes
that appear to have the same symptoms as those described above to the Alberta Horticultural
Research Center. They should be individually wrapped in dry newspaper, tissue paper or

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Tobacco Rattle Virus Found In A Sample Of Alberta Potatoes (cont'd)

paper towelling and packed in a box or similar container. They should not be wrapped in
plastic or put into a plastic bag. Whenever possible the sample should be sent through a
district agriculturist. If this is not possible, a letter containing the following information
should accompany the sample. Name and address of the sender, the variety of potato, the
extent of the disease (per cent of tubers with symptoms), source of seed, and the past history
of the disease in the garden or on the farm.

The samples will be screened by AHRC staff and if any suspicious looking tubers
are found, they will be sent to the federal research station in Vancouver for confirmation of
the diagnosis.

The address of the Alberta Horticultural Research Center is Bag Service 200,
Brooks, Alberta, TOJ OJO.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

Ahcxio

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WARBLE INFESTATIONS DROP AGAIN IN ALBERTA

Alberta Agriculture's warble monitoring system has recorded a considerable drop
in the number of warble-infested cattle carcasses for the second consecutive year.

Dr. Ali Khan, livestock pest control specialist with Alberta Agriculture's beef
cattle and sheep branch, reports that the examination of slaughter cattle in packing plants in
Alberta by federal meat and hygiene inspectors during the past spring showed that only 4 per
cent of the carcasses were infested compared with 14 per cent in 1980 and 44 per cent in
1968. Dr. Khan also reports that this reduction in warble infestations in Alberta cattle has
been confirmed by data obtained from auction market inspections.

He attributes the dramatic drop in warble infested cattle carcasses during the past
three years to the continual treatment of cattle in both the fall and the spring and to the
persistent efforts of agricultural service board fieldmen. He says that they have carried out
their area warble control and enforcement programs with great diligence. And he believes
that a further reduction in the number of warbles can be achieved through the continued co-
operation of all sectors of the cattle industry.

Dr Khan points out that we are not alone in our fight against warble flies. He
reports that in Great Britain, for example, 34 per cent of the marketable cattle were infested
with warble grubs in 1 978. However, by 1 982 this figure had dropped to only 0. 1 7 per cent
as a result of their intensive eradication program and its strict enforcement.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SPECIALTY CROP SITUATION

Specialty crop growers in Alberta can expect generally favorable prices for this
year's crops.

This is the opinion of Fred Boyce, special commodities analyst with Alberta Agri-
culture. He says lower production prospects plus much stronger prices for the main grain and
oilseed crops has pushed specialty crop prices above what they were last spring.

He also says that the main specialty crop acreages in Alberta, and in Western
Canada as a whole, are lower than they were in 1982 except for the mustard seed acreage,
which increased by 18 per cent. Generally poor price prospects at seeding time were respons-
ible for a substantial decline in canary seed, dry bean, lentil, and fababean acreages. The
buckwheat, sunflower, dry pea and grain corn acreages were also down from last year. The
main reason for the large increase in the mustard seed acreage was the relatively attractive
contract prices that were offered last spring.

Mr. Boyce reports that yields are expected to be average for the majority of spec-
ialty crops in both Western Canada and the United States. The pulse crop acreage in the
U.S.A. is considerably smaller than it was in 1982, and the dry bean and lentil acreages decr-
eased by 39 and 45 per cent respectively. The dry pea acreage also decreased with the green
variety acreage down by 7 per cent and the yellow variety acreage down by 13 per cent.

-30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

September 26, 1983 6
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE ISOLATION AND CLONING OF AN ICE-FORMING GENE

Scientists at a California biotechnology firm and at the University of California in
Berkeley have announced the isolation of a gene that could help unlock the mystery of frost
damage to plants and ultimately lead to more effective frost protection methods.

According to information received by Conrad Gietz, Alberta Agriculture's agro-
meteorologist, the scientists have isolated the bacterial gene that is responsible for ice nucle-
ation. Found in several species of bacteria, the gene apparently stimulates the production of a
substance that causes water to form ice crystals when the temperature is slightly below freez-
ing. It is these crystals that actually cause the frost injury to plants.

In addition to isolating the ice nucleating gene, the scientists at the biotechnology
firm and at the University of California have managed to clone the nucleating gene into E. coli
bacteria that is commonly used in genetic engineering. The fact that E. coli containing the
new gene can be cultured in a laboratory to produce biogenic ice nuclei in relatively large
quantities means that scientists can now explore the structural components of the nucleating
material. And this could lead to the development of anti-ice nucleating substances to protect
crops from frost damage.

Scientists have been studying ice nucleating in microorganisms, plants and insects
for a number of years, but this is the first time that genes for ice nucleation have been isolated
and cloned from a living organism.

(cont'd)

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

The Isolation And Cloning Of An Ice-Forming Gene (cont'd)

Ice nucleating research has applications in other areas including weather modif-
ication where the nucleation material could potentially be used to seed clouds so that they
would produce rain or snow. Mr. Gietz agrees with the scientists who say that the scientific
and commercial benefits that could be derived from ice nucleating research are just beginning
to be explored. And he says the above research represents important progress towards answer-
ing the most basic questions about how ice formation is triggered.

- 30-

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FALL VERSUS SPRING NITROGEN FERTILIZER APPLICATIONS

Questions about the relative effectiveness of fall and spring nitrogen fertilizer
applications are common at this time of year because many farmers prefer to apply their fert-
ilizers in the fall so that they can take advantage of the fall discount prices and reduce their
spring workload.

Doug Penney, Alberta Agriculture's supervisor of soil fertility, reports that re-
search carried out in Alberta has shown that large losses of fertilizer can occur under certain
conditions when fertilizers are applied in the fall. He explains that while these results should
not discourage fall fertilizing in general, they do show the need for caution in some situa-
tions.

The following table shows the relative effectiveness of nitrogen fertilizers that are
applied in the spring and in the fall under low, medium and high rainfall conditions on brown
and dark brown soils, thin black and some black soils, and on gray black and gray soils.

Method

Spring broadcast
and incorporated

Spring banded

Fall broadcast
and incorporated*

Fall banded*

Low Rainfall (Brown
and Dark Brown soils)

100%

1 1 5%
1 1 0%

115%

Medium Rainfall (Thin
Black and some Black
soils)

1 00%

1 1 0%

85%

95%

High Rainfall (Gray
Black and Gray soils)

1 00%

1 10%

80%

85%

Fall fertilizer applications, as shown in the above table, are as good or better than
spring fertilizer applications under low rainfall conditions, but they ate not as good under
high rainfall conditions.

In September and early October the relative value is less than is shown, while
in the late fall, it is greater than is shown.

(cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

Abexto

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Fall Versus Spring Nitrogen Fertilizer Applications (cont'd )

Mr. Penny points out that, because it is the nitrate form of nitrogen that is lost
under wet soil conditions, the ammonium form of nitrogen can be used to reduce the losses
that can occur in early spring when nitrogen has been applied in the fall. He also points out
that the method of application and the timing of the application are important because,
under warm, moist conditions, ammonium nitrogen is rapidly converted in the soil to nitrate
nitrogen. Hence, to reduce nitrogen losses that can occur from fall fertilizing, he recomm-
ends applying ammonium fertilizers like anhydrous ammonia and urea from mid to late
October. And he says banding ammonium fertilizers will also help to reduce the rate of their
conversion.

A question that is often raised is: "Why not apply all nitrogen fertilizers in the
spring if the loss from fall-applied nitrogen is a problem?" Mr. Penney concedes tha+ the
application of nitrogen fertilizers in the spring is valid for some farmers, but he says that in
many cases a farmer has to coordinate his fertilizer applications with his other farming opera-
tions.

A survey of barley and canola growers in central Alberta, that was carried out by
Alberta Agriculture's field crops branch recently, showed that many top producers apply
their fertilizers in the fall. "Hence, it is important", says Mr. Penney, "that we know the
extent of losses that can occur from fall fertilizing, and that we learn how to prevent them."
And he says research funded by Alberta Agriculture's Farming for the Future Program is
helping to identify the specific conditions under which significant nitrogen losses occur as
well as to identify the most effective methods of application.

-30-

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"AUTUMN SHED" IN EVERGREENS

Many Alberta homeowners will have noticed or will notice during October yellow
foliage appearing on some of their evergreen trees, especially pines and cedars.

Because this color change is often dramatic, a natural reaction is to suspect that
the tree or shrub has been attacked by a disease or insects. While such attacks can cause foli-
age yellowing, they are not the main cause at this time of year. The yellowing is more likely
to be a natural phenomenon, known as the "autumn shed".

The reason that evergreen trees are green throughout the whole year is because
they do not shed all their foliage at the same time as is the case with most deciduous trees.
And their annual needle or leaf drop often goes unnoticed because it is gradual and because
it is concealed by new terminal growth.

Most species of spruce and pine and some types of cedars and junipers sheld their
older foliage in the fall, while Scots, lodgepole and Austrian pines retain their needles for
three years. They occasionally drop a few of their three-year-old needles in the late spring or
early summer. Spruce and fir trees keep their needles for even longer than three or four years.

Dr. Ronald Howard, who is the plant pathologist at the Alberta Horticultural Re-
search Center in Brooks, says any factor which decreases the vigor of an evergreen tree or
places it under stress can increase the extent of its "autumn shed" and can even bring on the

(cont'd]

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

"Autumn Shed" In Evergreens (cont'd )

shed sooner than normal. Some examples of such factors are wet or poorly drained soils,
drought, low soil fertility, soil salinity, transplant shock, spider mites, herbicide damage and
winter injury. Dr. Howard also says the implementation of appropriate remedial measures
will usually bring about a resumption of normal growth, but, because evergreens cannot re-
generate foliage that has been lost, such trees may be left looking deformed or "scraggly" for
several years.

He advises those who is not sure whether yellowing in their evergreens is the result
of '"the autumn shed" or whether it is being caused by an insect or disease problem to
consult a tree specialist.

-30-

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DEADLINE FOR FIELD CROP ENTRIES FOR THE ROYAL

October 8 is the deadline for receipt of field crops entry forms for the Royal
Agricultural Winter Fair, which will take place in Toronto from November 10 - 19, 1983.
They should send directly to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Exhibition Place, Toronto,
Ontario, M6K 3C3.

Bill Witbeck, Alberta Agriculture's supervisor of seed technology, urges farmers to
accept the challenge offered by the Royal and send exhibits. He points out that, in addition
to prize money, the recognition achieved by those who exhibit seed at the Royal each year is
extremely valuable both to themselves and to the province as a whole.

Once again Alberta Agriculture will pay the cost of transporting exhibits to
Toronto, and it will provide prize money in all the pedigreed classes that is equal to that prov-
ided by the Royal. It also provides an honorarium of $100 every year for each of the first
prize winners in the pedigreed classes and an honorarium of $200 for each grand champion-
ship winner. The honorarium for reserve grand championship winners is $1 50.

Mr. Witbeck says exhibits may be selected from either the 1 982 or the 1983 crop,
and that the entry fee is $2 per sample except in the case of 4-H classes and pedigreed seed
classes where there is no fee.

Commercial cereal seed samples should weigh 10 pounds each, while commercial
forage, mustard and canola seed samples should weigh three pounds. Pedigreed seed samples,
which must be taken from a 500-pound or larger lot, should also weigh three pounds. Seed
potato samples must contain 20 tubers that weigh 7 to 8 ounces each and the variety must be
recorded. A hay sample must contain not less than a 12-inch section of a bale, and sheaves
must be not less than five inches in diameter in the centre of the sheaf and not more than
seven inches.

(cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Deadline For Field Crop Entries For The Royal (cont'd)

All exhibits must be shipped in containers that are strong enough to ensure that
they will reach their destination in good condition. Light cotton sacks should be placed in a
cardboard box for shipping, and the entry tag should be placed inside the box.

Exhibits that are sent to Alberta Agriculture must arrive by October 28, while
those sent directly to the Royal must arrive there before November 2. Exhibits sent to
Alberta Agriculture should be addressed to the Field Crops Branch, Alberta Agriculture, Bag
Service No.47, Lacombe, Alberta, TOC 1SO.

Additional information on exhibiting at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, prize
lists and entry forms can be obtained from district agriculturists or from Bill Witbeck by tele-
phoning 728-4641 in Lacombe

- 30 -

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CATFACING OF TOMATOES

The term "catface" has been applied to tomatoes that have a distinct marking
and a distorted shape at the blossom end of the fruit.

The plant pathologist at the Alberta Horticultural Research Center, Dr. Ronald
Howard, says that this disorder can occur on both greenhouse and field-grown tomatoes, and
that it can affect most varieties. He says prolonged cold weather during flowering and faulty
flower fertilizing, are the main causes of catfacing.

In addition to being misshapen, such fruit will have ridges, furrows, protu-
berances, ribs, creases, indentations and blotches at the blossom end, often involving the
whole tomato.

According to Dr. Howard, the incidence of catface can be minimized by growing
tomato varieties that are less susceptible to the problem than others. He says most varieties
that are recommended for growing in Alberta are resistant to this condition.

Catfacing can be prevented from developing in greenhouses by following recom-
mended pollination procedures and maintaining temperature above 16° C.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FARM SAFETY POSTER AND ESSAY CONTEST Wl NNE RS

Railway crossings, climbing broken ladders and grain truck boxes are some of the
hazardous situations depicted in the 1983 Farm Safety Poster contest.

Following is a list of the first, second, third and fourth place winners in grades 1

through 4.

Grade 1

John Tenwolde — Lamont
Tory Mark Braybrook - Devon
Natale Paeser — Ardrossan
Kevin Klein - Dapp

Grade 3

Debby E. Wipf - Hanna
David Leslie — Sherwood Park
Rod Chapman - Lethbridge
Kara Wigg — Cremona

Grade 2

Jay Birkjar — Killam
Robert Myer — Mayerthorpe
Coleen Pawluski — Eaglesham
Bobbi Petrowski -Innisfree

Grade 4

Travis Aylesworth — Glendon
Lorna Gaschnitz — High Prairie
Karen Nelson — Strathmore
Jamie Lind — Nanton

Approximately 6,500 posters were entered in the contest by elementary school
students from across the province. The 16 winners listed above were chosen by Albena Agri-
culture's farm safety program staff for the style of their presentations, and especially, for the
farm safety messages they conveyed. The contest is sponsored every year by the farm safety
program.

All the winning posters are being printed in a sa;c;ty workbook entitled "A child's
Guide to Farm Safety", which will be distributed later this year throughout the province.

Farm safety program staff will be visiting the schools of the winning students
during December and presenting them with a copy of the workbook and a special safety

award.

(cont'd]

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Farm Safety Poster And Essay Contest Winners (cont'd)

"A Child's Guide to Farm Safety" will also contain the 12 essays of the winners
of the Jellybean Jenkins Safety Story Contest. The themes of these essays ranged from eating
treated wheat and an experience with dangerous animals to being careful around farm mach-
inery.

Following is a list of the first and second place winners in grades 1 through 6.

Grade 1

Sarah Beamish — Dapp
Jodi Raine — Sedgewick

Grade 3

Martin Scase — Nanton
John MacDonald — Glendon

Grade 5

Steve M. Gross - Milo
Andrea Stavert — Calahoo

Grade 2

Tanya Stenson — Forestburg
Roger Moore — Forestburg

Grade 4

Merrilea Tillitson — Innisfree
Marilyn Dmytriw — Innisfree

Grade 6

Jerry A. Waldner — Castor
Robyn Lambert — Vulcan

Additional information on the contests and the workbook can be obtained from
Solomon Kyeremanteng, Alberta Farm Safety Program, J.G. O'Donoghue Building,
7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

30-

September 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POULTRY SPECIALIST APPOINTED TO LETHBR IDGE AREA

C.W. Herbert, head of Alberta Agriculture's poultry branch, has
announced the appointment of Martin Dyck to the position of poultry specialist in
the Lethbridge area. He replaces Rod Chernos who was transferred to Airdrie
when Jack Plumley retired.

Mr. Dyck brings extensive experience in the poultry production and
extension fields to his new position. Prior to his present appointment, he was man-
aging editor of the "Canada Poultryman", which has its head office in New West-
minster, British Columbia. While working for the magazine, he wrote and edited
articles on the management, nutrition, health and marketing of poultry and wrote a
monthly editorial column.

Between 1975 and 1980 he was employed as a poultry specialist by
United Feeds in the Lethbridge area. And in the summer of 1974, while still at
university, he worked for Alberta Agriculture on a salmonella research project in
which he collected and monitored samples at feed mills, hatcheries, poultry farms
and processing plants.

Mr. Dyck attended high school in Coaldale and received his B.Sc. (agri-
culture) in 1975, having majored in poultry science.

-30-

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

September 26 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DISTRICT HOME ECONOMIST APPOINTED TO SANGUDO

The head of Alberta Agriculture's district home economics branch,
Shirley Myers has announced the appointment of Jo-Ann Hall to the position of
district home economist at Sangudo.

Ms. Hall grew up in Vermilion and obtained her B.Sc. (home econ-
omics) from the University of Alberta in 1982, having majored in family studies.

She took her district home economist training in Red Deer where she
has been until her present appointment.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Alberta's Trade With Japan 1

Points On Weaning Calves 3

Ammoniating Straw And Chaff 6

Late Fall Seeding Of Forage Crops 8

Granular Herbicide Applicators Tested By PAMI 9

Herbicide Application Rates Charged In 1983 11

Taking Stock - 1983 13

Minimizing Winterkill To Trees And Shrubs 15

Land Use Branch Head Appointed 16

Coming Agricultural Events 17

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

ne: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA'S TRADE WITH JAPAN

Although Alberta suppliers export a wide range of products October

Export Trade
Monlh

to Japan, and there are opportunities to broaden this range, the compet-

"'- 7QCT0BRE
^'^•^~7 Mois des
d^^HMVexportaiions

ition for that market is fierce, which means that the suppliers must always
be conscious of the quality of their products, their prices and the reliability
of their supply.

Jackson Gardner, an international trade director with Alberta Agriculture, reports
that Japan has been importing Angus Cattle from Alberta for some time now. And he says
the approximately 200 head that are exported to Japan every year are used mainly in the
northern regions of the country. He hopes that other cattle breeds can eventually be added
to the Angus exports.

Mr. Gardner also reports that, Alberta has established itself in Japan as a supplier
of high quality swine breeding stock. The main reason the Japanese have been buying Alberta
breeding stock is that they want to preserve Alberta's traditional bloodlines, which they
prefer to other bloodlines. Mr. Gardner expects this trade with Japan to increase ove- the
next few years.

Canola also continues to represent a major export to Japan. In fact, in the agri-
cultural field, and in dollar value terms, canola is Canada's number one export commodity to
that country. According to Mr. Gardner, there will be more emphasis in the coming years
placed on diversifying canola into oil and meal exports.

In the area of animal feeds, Alberta Agriculture actively supports the sale of dehy
alfalfa. Mr. Gardner says there appears to be an opportunity to expand these sales, part-
icularly in the area of direct feeding. Feeding trials have been organized in Japan to provide
concrete evidence of the benefits that can be derived from feeding dehy alfalfa.

(cont'd)

alberta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Alberta's Trade With Japan (cont'd)

In the area of processed food, Alberta Agriculture is supporting the participation
of Alberta firms in all the major food shows and restaurant promotions. Mr. Gardner says
"We expect these exports to become more significant in the future as we make Japanese
consumers more aware of Alberta's high quality food products."

Alberta Agriculture recently completed a geographical study of existing and pot-
ential red meat markets in various parts of the world, including Japan. The study was de-
signed to identify opportunities for the sale of beef and pork, on the condition that quality
and price qualifications can be met. "We intend", says Mr. Gardner, "to fully support sup-
pliers of these products who take advantage of real export opportunities."

He points out that Japan's lack of arable land presents Alberta with an excellent
opportunity to sell that country forage varieties that were bred and multiplied here. And he
says the recent pasture land development projects that are taking place in Japan, particularly
in the northern regions, has increased the awareness of the Japanese for the need to import
new forage seed varieties.

Mr. Gardner explains that, while there may appear to be many difficulties that
have to be overcome when trading with Japan, there are an equal number of opportunities.
He says "We should, therefore, be pragmatic in our approach to the marketing of our pro-
ducts so that our optimum potential may be realized."

- 30 -

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POINTS ON WEANING CALVES

There are a number of things that cattlemen can do to reduce the damage caused
by stress to newly weaned beef calves, and, thereby, make them a more attractive purchase.

The first involves the processing aspects of the operation. Ross Gould, beef cattle
specialist with Alberta Agriculture, recommends that such procedures as vaccinating, dehorn-
ing and castrating be done at least three weeks before the calves are weaned. He also says
that once the cows and calves have been separated, they should not be allowd to see each
other again. Because the cows will go through almost anything to get to their calves, and be-
cause the calves will find any weak spot in a fence, the fences that contain the two groups
must be in top condition.

Next Mr. Gould recommends checking weather reports to avoid putting additional
stress on the calves by weaning them in wet, cold or windy weather.

He says where possible the feeders for calves that have been on creep feed should
be put into the pen where the calves will be weaned, and that the calves should have access to
this pen for a few days before they are weaned. This way they will learn to feed out of a feed
bunk more quickly.

Feed bunks should be no more than 18 inches high for newly weaned calves, and
they may even be dug into the ground if necessary. Calves weighing up to 600 pounds need
18 to 24 inches of bunk space per head so that those that are smaller and more timid do not
get crowded out. However, eight inches per calf should be enough room for a hay self-feeder.

Mr. Gould recommends feeding newly weaned calves a small amount (less than
one per cent of body weight) of grain the first day after they have been weaned and gradually

(cont'd!

Phone: (403)427-2121

alberta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Points On Weaning Calves (cont'd)

increasing this amount until the desired level is reached. He points out that keeping the
calves eager to come to the bunk makes it is easier to spot slow moving, sick animals.

Also, because newly weaned calves tend to walk fence lines, it is a good idea to
put the feed bunks against the fence at right angles so that calves will find the feed.

A supply of fresh, clean water is extremely important for newly weaned calves.
Like the feed bunks, the water should be in a place where it can be easily located. Mr.
Gould says that some cattlemen allow their automatic waterers to overflow for a few days
because the calves sometimes have difficulty in realizing that the waterers contain water.
He recommends one waterer or a 200 gallon open tank for every 40 calves. And he stresses
that the water must not be allowed to become dirty, stagnant or frozen.

A supply of salt and minerals is also important for newly weaned calves. The salt,
which should be loose rather than in a block because the calves will eat more, should be put
into a divided, covered compartment at the end of a feed bunk or in a two compartment
mineral feeder. As with the feed bunk, the mineral container should not be more than 18
inches above the ground.

Regarding shelter, Mr. Gould advises protecting newly weaned calves from the
wind, rain or wet snow, when feasible, with a three-sided shed that opens to the south or
to the east. And he says that calves that weigh 500 pounds need 1 5 square feet of shed space
per head and 150 square feet of corral space. However, if the corral is paved, 25 square feet per
head should be enough.

In the absence of a shed, a windbreak or a semi-solid fence can be used to protect
newly weaned calves. The fence can be made of slabs or of one-inch boards with 15 to 20 per
cent open spaces between them. Such a fence will prevent snow drifts from forming on the
lee side of the fence, and it will provide protection from the wind over a fairly large area of
the pen.

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Points On Weaning Calves (cont'd)

Since some calves will get sick in spite of the best precautions, it is important to
have chutes and squeezes in good working order. And animals that require treatment should
be isolated in a "hospital" pen. Mr. Gould advises all cattlemen to have a treatment program
worked out with their veterinarian ahead of time so that they are ready for any emergency.

Finally, he recommends weaning calves and adapting them to solid feed at least
30 days before they are to be sold.

-30-

Phone:(403)427-2121

alberta

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AMMONI ATING STRAW AND CHAFF

When everything is taken into consideration, much can be said in favor of collect-
ing, ammoniating and feeding straw and chaff to beef cattle.

This is the view of Glen Werner, senior district agriculturist at Stettler, who
reports that work carried out by the Saskatchewan Research Council has shown that ammon-
iated straw and chaff make good livestock feed, and that a farmer can save money by feeding
them in place of conventional feed to his beef cow herd. If, for example, the ammoniation
treatment costs can be kept down to about $14 per ton, a farmer feeding 100 cows for 180
days ould save as much as about $4,000 compared with what it would cost him to feed a
conventional hay ration over the same period.

Mr. Werner says ammoniation improves the feeding quality of straw and chaff by
increasing its crude protein equivalent, the amount of digestible energy (TDN) and the
amount of roughage that the animal will eat.

He also says that straw which is intended for ammoniation should contain at least
12 per cent moisture and preferably 15 to 20 per cent. He notes that it can be either mechan-
ically stacked or baled, but that baling is preferable. Wheat straw should have a TDN of at
least 33 per cent and barley straw should have a TDN of at least 38 per cent.

Mr. Werner points out that although chaff can be a problem to collect during
combining, its collection has numerous advantages. Among them are the removal of certain
crop-retarding properties, viable weed seeds and shrivelled and broken grain kernels.

(cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone: (403)427-2121

-2-

Ammoniating Straw And Chaff (cont'd)

According to Mr. Werner, wheat chaff that has not been ammoniated has a crude
protein content of about 6 per cent and a TDN of 35 to 40 per cent when neither its weed
seed nor its grain content are taken into consideration. Treating the chaff with ammonia
renders the weed seeds and the grain non-viable and probably makes it more digestible, and it
also improves the crude protein and TDN content of the chaff. "Possibly the most important
advantage of ammoniating chaff", says Mr Werner, "is that the animal intake of this feed is
substantially increased."

-30 -

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LATE FALL SEEDING OF FORAGE CROPS
The late fall seeding of forage crops is becoming increasingly popular with Alberta

farmers.

Phil Dixon, district agriculturist at Rocky Mountain House, says that seeding for-
age crops between October 15 and freeze-up means the seeds will germinate early in the
spring, thereby enabling the young seedlings to take full advantage of the moisture from the
melting snow.

Since the ground is too cold for the seeds to germinate after October 1 5, they are,
in essence, being stored in the ground ready to emerge when the soil warms up the following
spring. Mr. Dixon says, apart from sweer clover, most legumes and grasses that are sown in
the fall germinate well the following spring.

He also says in some years farmers who seed their forage crops in the late fall
stand to gain three to four weeks of growth the following spring compared with crops that
are seeded in the spring.

Late fall seeding is particularly desirable in areas where the land is too wet to
work in the spring.

However, Mr. Dixon notes that there are two potential problems associated with
late fall seeding — soil crusting and weeds! He says "When we seeded a forage plot late last
fall in grey wooded soil, severe soil crusting prevented the various grasses and legumes from
emerging in the spring." "Hence, in cases where the soil is likely to crust or weeds are likely
to be a problem, it would be better to work the soil in the spring and then to seed the
forage."

Mr. Dixon also warns against seeding forage crops in September or during the first

two weeks of October. This is because the seeds would germinate before the cold weather set
in and the seedlings would be killed when it arrived.

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GRANULAR HERBICIDE APPLICATORS TESTED BY PAMI

The Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute (PAMI) is presently testing pneum-
atic granular pesticide applicators at its Lethbridge station.

According to Ed Wiens, manager and senior engineer at the station, there are two
basic types of granular herbicide applicators on the market. One is the gravity or dribble type
and the other is the pneumatic or air type. In the case of the former, the herbicide is metered
out from a box across the width of the machine and falls to the ground. In the latter, the
herbicide is metered out from centrally located hoppers and is delivered across the width of
the machine by air. It is spread by the action of the airborne granules hitting the impact
plates. Both the gravity and the pneumatic applicators can be mounted on a trailer or on an
implement.

Mr. Wiens says the trailer-mounted models necessitate that the herbicide be sub-
sequently incorporated into the soil, while those that mounted on an implement incorporate
the granules as they are being applied. He also says that the trend appears to be towards the

pneumatic type of applicators because they are thought to give a more even distribution
pattern compared with the gravity type.

The PAMI staff have already tested the most commonly used gravity applicators
and given them a rating of only "fair" because of the unevenness of their distribution patt-
erns. It was in response to this evaluation, that the farm machinery manufacturers came up
with the pneumatic type of applicators.

Since such things as impact plate height, impact plate spacings, fan speed and air
velocity have an effect on distribution patterns, all these variables are taken into considera-
tion during the tests, Mr. Wiens says.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Granular Herbicide Applicators Tested By PAMI (cont'd )

He also says the PAMI tests are intended to help farmers in their selection and use
of granular herbicide applicators, which are being used more and more frequently for the fall
control of wild oats, broad-leaved weeds and grasses. He says up to a few years ago, Avadex
BW was the only granular herbicide on the market, but that there are now a wide variety of
these chemicals being used in the fall.

The test results on granular herbicide applicators and on other machinery that has
been tested by PAMI can be obtained from the Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute , c/o
LCC Campus, Lethbridge, Alberta, TIK IL6 (Telephone: 329-1212).

-30-

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HERBICIDE APPLICATION RATES CHARGED IN 1983

The custom rates charged this year in Alberta for applying herbicides remained
relatively unchanged from those charged in 1983, except for the northern part of the prov-
ince where they increased slightly.

The data contained in the following two tables are based on the results of a survey
carried out by Alberta Agriculture last June and July.

Aerial Application Rates (Per Acre)

Region Most Common 1982 Range 1983 Most Common 1983

South $2.75 -$4.00 $2.25 $6.30 $2.75 - $4.00

Central $2.50 - $3.50 $2.50 - $4.00 $3.00 - $3.50

North $2.50 -$3.75 $2.50 - $4.50 $3.15 -$4.00

The south region consists of the area from Olds south to the American border; the
central region consists of the area from Olds north to Edmonton; and the north region
consists of the area north of Edmonton and includes the Peace River region.

According to Gerd Andres, herbicide application charges are higher when the
spraying is done by aircraft as opposed to helicopters. He points out that although planes
have a larger tank holding capacity than helicopters, they are restricted by the availability of
nearby landing strips. If the pilot has to return to the base rather than being able to land in
a nearby field to refill his tank, his charge will reflect the extra time involved. Since a heli-
copter can land almost anywhere, its refilling time is kept to a minimum.

Mr. Andres also points out that the considerable difference in the rates in the
above table can be explained by the fact that the charge for the aerial application of herbi-

(cont'd) -

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

2 •

Herbicide Application Rates Charged In 1983 (cont'd)

cides is influenced by the chemical application rate. Custom applicators vary their rates acc-
ording to the amount of chemical they apply per acre, and, naturally, the higher the applica-
tion rate, the higher will be their charge.

The table below gives the rates charged by custom operators who applied herb-
icides with ground equipment.

Ground Application Rates (Per Acre)
Region Most Common 1982 Range 1983 Most Common 1983

South $2.00 -$3.00 $1.00 -$3.50 $2.00 - $3.00

Central $1.75 -$2.75 $2.25 - $3.75 $2.25 - $3.00

North $2.50 -$3.00 $1.75 -$4.00 $1.75 -$4.00

Unlike aerial spraying, the amount of chemical applied per acre does not affect
the custom charge for ground spraying. However, the volume of water applied per acre will
cause a slight variation in rates.

Mr. Andres reports that of the 55 applicators surveyed this year, 64 per cent did
aerial spraying and 36 per cent did ground spraying. He says the use of aerial applicators has
increased in recent years because fields in many parts of the province have been too wet to
spray with ground equipment.

More information on custom rates for all types of operations can be obtained
from district agriculturists, from Alberta Agriculture's farm business management branch in
Olds at 556-4247 and from Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch in Edmonton at 427-4018.

-30-

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAKING STOCK - 1983

Taking Stock - 1983, a workshop and outlook conference for Alberta's livestock
industry, will be held at the Convention Inn South in Edmonton on November 8 and 9, 1 983.

The workshop, which will be held in the evening of November 8, is a new feature
that will be limited to the first 100 people who register for the conference. It has been de-
signed to introduce livestock producers to sources of market information and to help them to
interpret and to use it in their production and maketing decisions. It will also cover the
futures market and the principles of hedging.

The conference will be held on November 9 and will provide an analysis of econ-
omic conditions and an explanation of the way in which they affect Alberta livestock produ-
cers. It will also provide up-to-date market situation and outlook information on cattle and
hogs. And there will be a question and answer period on market concerns that pertain to
both cattle and hog producers.

Following is a list of the topics that will be covered by the conference.

General Economic Conditions for Livestock Production — Dr. Ernie Stokes,
Director of National Forecasting, Conference Board of Canada, Ottawa,
Ontario.

The North American Cattle Outlook — Robert Price, Western Livestock
Market Information Project, Denver, Colorado, U.S.A.

The Alberta Perspective Dennis McGivern, Market Research Analyst,
L.K. Resources Ltd., Calgary, Alberta.

The U.S. Hog Situation and Outlook - Dr. Gene Futrell, Department of
Economics, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, U.S.A.

The Canadian and Alberta Hog Outlook - Greg Whalley, Economist,
Alberta Pork Producers Marketing Board, Edmonton, Alberta.

(cont'd)

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Brancn

Taking Stock - 1983 (cont'd)

The conference will conclude with a panel discussion on the market outlook of
cattle and hogs.

Three registration plans are being offered for the conference. The first costs $40
and covers the conference sessions, proceedings and lunch. The second costs $30 and covers
the conference and proceedings. The third costs $1 5 and covers the proceedings only, which
will be mailed out immediately following the conference. There is no charge for the work-
shop.

Since the conference is limited to 350 people, anyone who wishes to attend it
must have his or her registration form in by October 28.

Registration forms and further information on Taking Stock — 1983 can be
obtained from district agriculturists or by contacting the Market Analysis Branch, Alberta
Agriculture, 7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6. (Telephone: 427-5387).

Taking Stock — 1983 has been arranged this year to coincide with the Northland
Farmfair, which will be held at the Northlands Exhibition Grounds in Edmonton from
November 3-13.

-30-

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MINIMIZING WINTERKILL TO TREES AND SHRUBS

Water your ornamental trees and shrubs thoroughly between now and freeze-up
to minimize winterkilling, advises Herman Oosterhuis who is Alberta Agriculture's shelterbelt
specialist.

He explains that watering at this time of year is more important than at any other
time, particularly in the case of pines, junipers and spruce. It is even more important if the
tree or shrub was planted this year or if it is growing in a dry location such as close to the
house and on the south or east side of the house. Mr. Oosterhuis says birch trees are another
species that should be watered in the fall, Because of their shallow root system, they do not
have access to deep subsoil moisture.

When the soil is frozen and the tree or shrub is relatively dormant, moisture
cannot be supplied to the twigs, buds or needles to prevent them from drying out. However,
a plentiful supply of moisture in the fall will enable it to withstand the drying force of the
winter winds and the varying temperatures. And since evergreens retain their needles all
winter, they are more vulnerable to winter desiccation than deciduous trees.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

Ahefia

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 3, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAND USE BRANCH HEAD APPOINTED

Brian Colgan, director of Alberta Agriculture's resource planning div-
ision, has announced the appointment of Dr. Alfred Birch to the position of head
of the land use branch.

Located in Edmonton, Dr. Birch will manage the branch's coordination
of departmental policy and related research pertaining to the development of land
and water resources. He will also serve on a number of committees concerned with
agricultural resource management and development.

Dr. Birch was born on a farm in central British Columbia and grew up
in that province. He is a graduate of the University of British Columbia and holds
degrees in agricultural economics from the University of Alberta and Michigan
State University in the United States.

He was most recently employed in Alberta Agriculture's resource econ-
omics branch where his main responsibility was the economic analysis of agricul-
tural water resource development. He has also worked with Alberta Agriculture's

planning and research secretariat.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

1 /

COMING AGRICULTURAL EVENTS

1983

Pacific Northwest Region Meeting of American
Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE)
Empress Hotel

Victoria, B.C October 12-14

North Central Region Meeting of ASAE

Weyburn, Saskatchewan October 14-15

Round-Up '83
Stampede Park

Calgary, Alberta October 26 - 30

USDA Outlook Conference
Jefferson Auditorium

Washington, D.C., U.S. A October 31 - November 3

Alberta Honey Producers Cooperative Ltd — Annual Meeting
Mayfield Inn

Edmonton, Alberta November 1

United Grain Growers Ltd — Annual Meeting
Hotel Saskatchewan

Regina, Saskatchewan November 2 - 3

The Alberta Beekeepers Association's 50th Annual Convention
Mayfield Inn

Edmonton, Alberta November 2 - 4

Northland's Farmfair
AgriCom Building
Northlands Grounds

Edmonton, Alberta November 3-13

Women of Unifarm - Annual Convention
Capri Centre

Red Deer, Alberta November 8 - 9

Taking Stock - Market Prospects for Cattle and Hogs
Convention Inn South

Edmonton, Alberta November 8 - 9

Annual Saskatchewan Swine Symposium
Bessborough Hotel

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan November 8-10

Canadian Dehy Conference
Edmonton Inn

Edmonton, Alberta November 15-16

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Coming Agricultural Events (cont'd)

Alberta Greenhouse Growers Association
Continental Inn
954 - 7th Street, S.W.

Medicine Hat, Alberta November 17-18

Mexabition

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan November 17-21

Saskatoon Fall Fair and Mexabition
Prairieland Exhibition Grounds

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan November 18-22

Alberta Wheat Pool Annual Meeting
Palliser Hotel

Calgary, Alberta November 21 - December 2

Alberta Potato Commission Annual Meeting
Lodge Hotel

Lethbridge, Alberta November 24 - 25

Canadian Western Agribition
Exhibition Grounds

Regina, Saskatchewan November 26 - December 2

Mexabition

Regina, Saskatchewan November 26 - December 2

The Canadian Federation of Agriculture
Committee on Vegetables for Processing Convention
Westin Hotel

Calgary, Alberta December 1 - 2

1983 Alberta Sheep Symposium

Banff, Alberta December 1 - 3

Alberta Fresh Vegetable Marketing Board Annual Meeting
Marlborough Inn

Calgary, Alberta December 2 - 3

Alberta Polled Hereford Society - Annual Meeting

Red Deer, Alberta December 4

Alberta Cattle Commission Annual Meeting
Edmonton Inn

Edmonton, Alberta December 6 - 7

Canadian Agricultural Outlook Conference

Government Conference Centre

Ottawa, Ontario

December 12-13

- 3 -

Coming Agricultural Events (cont'd)

Winter Meeting of ASAE
Hyatt Regency

Chicago, Illinois, U S A December 13- 16

1984

Pa 1 1 i sen Wheat Growers Association
Hotel Saskatchewan

Regina, Saskatchewan January 4 - 6

Unifarm Annual Convention1
Westin Hotel

Edmonton, Alberta January 9-13

Alberta Branch - Canadian Seed Growers' Association Annual Meeting
Westin Hotel

Edmonton, Alberta January 16-18

Alberta Pork Seminar
Banff Centre

Banff, Alberta January 18-20

Alberta Association of Co-op Seed Cleaning Plants Annual Conference
Westin Hotel

Edmonton, Alberta January 19-21

Alberta Canola Growers Association — Annual Convention
Four Seasons Hotel

Edmonton, Alberta January 25 - 27

Canadian Charolais Association Annual Meeting and Convention
Holiday Inn — Downtown

London, Ontario February 2 - 4

Provincial Agricultural Service Board Conference
Edmonton Inn

Edmonton, Alberta February 6 - 8

Alberta Dairymen's Annual Convention
Convention Inn

Edmonton, Alberta February 6 - 8

Canadian Federation of Agriculture

Edmonton, Alberta February 7 - 9

Western Canadian Economic Conference on the Food Industry
Marlborough Inn

Calgary, Alberta February 13-14

Phone:(403)427-2121

Liberia

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 4 -

Coming Agricultural Events (cont'd)

Ag-Expo

Lethbridge and District Exhibition

Lethbridge, Alberta February 29 - March 3

Agriculture Week

Province of Alberta March 5 - 1 1

Canola Council of Canada
Bayshore Inn

Vancouver, B.C March 26 - 28

Northlands Stock Show and Sale
Edmonton Exhibition Grounds

Edmonton, Alberta March 28 - 31

Canadian Western Farm and Ranch Show
Northlands

Edmonton, Alberta March 28 - 31

Managing Agricultural Technology for Profit Conference

Banff, Alberta March 30 - April 2

Alberta Dairy Seminar
Banff Springs Hotel

Banff, Alberta April 4 - 6

International Congress on Animal Reproduction and Artificial Insemination
Urbana-Campaign

Illinois, U.S. A June 10 - 14

Western Canadian Farm Progress Show

Regina, Saskatchewan June 20 - 23

Summer Meeting of ASAE
University of Tennessee

Knoxville, Tennessee, U.S. A June 24 - 27

Canadian Seed Trade Association Meeting
Westin Hotel

Edmonton, Alberta July 8-11

1984 Provincial Agricultural Service Board Tour

Athabasca, Alberta July 1 0 - 1 2

National Canadian Seed Growers' Association Convention
Holiday Inn - Downtown

Winnipeg, Manitoba July 12 - 13

National Alfalfa Improvement Conference

Lethbridge, Alberta July 16-20

Coming Agricultural Events (cont'd)

Edmonton's Klondike Days Exposition
Northlands Grounds

Edmonton, Alberta July 19-28

Canadian Society of Soil Science
Banff School of Fine Arts

Banff, Alberta August 26 - 29

Alberta Feed Industry Conference
Marlborough Inn

Calgary, Alberta September 18

Western Nutrition Conference
Marlborough Inn

Calgary, Alberta September 19-20

National Outstanding Young Farmer Banquet
Westin Hotel

Calgary, Alberta October 29

Seed Technology Workshop
Olds College

Olds, Alberta November 12-14

Canadian Western Agribition and Mexabition
Exhibition Grounds

Regina, Saskatchewan November 24 - 30

Winter Meeting of ASAE
Hyatt Regency
New Orleans

Louisiana, U.S. A December 11-14

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Alberta's Trade Interests In China 1

Olds College Announces Farm Waste Management System 3

Lysine In Hog Rations 5

"One-Shot" Parasite Control Product For Cattle 7

Seeding Vegetables In The Fall 8

1983 Haymaking Custom Charges 10

Land Use Hearing To Start In Calgary 12

PAMI Holds Open House 14

Winter Protection Of Trees And Shrubs 15

Soil And Water Engineer Appointed 17

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 4, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA'S TRADE INTERESTS IN CHINA
Canada was among the first of the Western industrialized nations October

Export Tiade
Mont^i

to resume trade and diplomatic relations with China in 1970 when the cold
war ended. And this new relationship was marked by a formal sales agreement
between the two countries concerning Canadian wheat and barley exports to China.

Dr. Joe Rosario, Alberta Agriculture's agricultural economics advisor, points out
that the agreement has continued to form the basis of our trading relations with China, but
that this concentration on grain exports is a matter of concern here in view of the intensifying
competition for international markets. He explains that concentrating on a single product puts
Canada in a very vulnerable position because the Chinese can always divert part of their purch-
ases to other countries. Such a diversion is of particular concern at this time because China has
a large balance of trade deficit with Canada. And Dr. Rosario says, "Alberta, as a major source
of Canada's agricultural exports, is over the federal government's recent proposals to further
restrict the importation of Chinese textiles and clothing. These and foot ware are China's
main exports to Canada, and she has been encouraging buy-back arrangements in the area of
capital goods in an attempt to improve her balance of trade position.

Dr. Rosario reports that to date Alberta's commercial sales of agricultural products,
other than wheat and barley, to China have been limited. Apart from grain, the province's
main trade has resulted from her twinning arrangement with Heilongjiang Province. Dr. Rosario
says "Heilongjiang's geography and agricultural programs make it a natural basis for the devel-
opment of trade relations with China as a whole."

In the past, Heilongjiang's livestock development program has provided Alberta
with an opportunity to cooperate with it in the genetic breeding of both dairy and beef cattle.
And it is expected to provide an opportunity for significant commercial sales once the techn-
ical problems related to health certification and quarantine facilities have been resolved. Acc-

(cont'd)

Liberia

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Alberta's Trade Interests In China (cont'd)

ording to Dr. Rosario, Alberta Agriculture is collaborating with provincial cattle and swine
breed organizations and technical experts in animal genetics in their efforts to ensure that
commercial livestock sales follow this cooperative effort.

While Alberta has sold some forage seed and barley seed to Heilongjiang, field-scale
experiments of seed donated by Alberta to Heilongjiang are presently in progress. "They will
be completed in 1985-86 and could result in some large-scale commercial sales," Dr. Rosario
says. He also says that Alberta agrologists are involved in large pasture and livestock devel-
opment programs in Heilongjiang.

Malting barley and hides have been two outstanding successes in Alberta's other
direct commercial transactions. According to Dr. Rosario, the initial sales of malting barley
and hides have been followed by more substantial sales. For example, an agreement has been
signed by Heilongjiang to buy 100,000 hides, 71,500 of which have already been shipped.
"This agreement," says Dr. Rosario, "can be expected to result in even larger sales in the
coming years."

He points out that familiarization on the part of the Chinese with the quality,
adaptability and competitiveness of such Alberta products as forage seed, malting barley,
breeding stock, etc., through technical missions and trade visits, needs to be continued if
Alberta is to make significant inroads into the Chinese market.

Dr. Rosario also says that Alberta's twinning arrangement with Heilongjiang has
been strengthened as a result of the Premier's recent visit to China and his extensive discussions
with Heilongjiang officials. And Dr. Rosario expects the Premier's visit to result in an expan-
sion of agricultural developments and trade between Alberta and China.

- 30-

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OLDS COLLEGE ANNOUNCES FARM WASTE
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Olds College in Olds, Alberta, is going to construct a $939,000 prototype waste
management system on its 70-year-old farmstead which will revolutionize manure handling
practices.

The chairman of the college's board of governors, Don Robertson, says the system
will recycle high moisture manure from the hog and dairy cattle facilities, the run-off from
the beef feedlots and the dry waste from horses and sheep as well as from the college's cafe-
teria to produce a variety of materials for reuse on the farm.

Mr. Robertson also says the recycling process will begin with the transportation
of the waste material to a covered mixing pit where its water content will be adjusted to prov-
ide a 10 per cent solid material mixture. It will be stored in a 2-million gallon tank called a
Slurrystore.

When required, the material will be pumped into a methane digester where an
anaerobic process will produce more than 7 million cubic feet of methane gas a year for use
in the Olds College heating plant and in a prototype demonstration electrical generator.

The by-products from the process will be transported by pipe to a tub grinder
where they will be mixed with fibre and other low food value bulk materials to produce a
balanced ration for beef or swine. The feed will be stored in two airtight Harvestore struc-
tures.

A.O. Harvestore Products Inc. of Illinois and its Western Canadian affiliate,
Western Harvestore Ltd., have donated materials and grants valued at $262,000 to the proj-
ect which will be matched by grants from the Alberta Advanced Education Endowment
Fund. The Olds College Foundation plans to raise an additional $150,000 and the college
itself will allocate $265,000 from the province's recent $2 million college farmstead upgrad-
ing grant.

ydlbcrra

Phone: (403)427-2121

(cont'd) -

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Olds College Announces Farm Waste Management System (cont'd)

Mr. Robertson reports that the methane by-products can also be used as a fertil-
izer or they can be redigested and dried to form a product that can be used for animal bedd-
ing or to replace peat moss in the horticultural industry.

He adds that construction of the methane digester, the Slurrystore and the two
Harvestores will begin immediately, and that they are expected to be operating early next
spring.

- 30-

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LYSINE IN HOG RATIONS

When hog feed is formulated on a strictly protein basis, it is possible to have
either a shortage or an excess of one or more of the 10 essential amino acids, and this can be
costly.

Alberta Agriculture's monogastric nutritionist, Sam Jaikaran, explains that the
amino acids in hog rations are supplied by the protein in the feed, and that, for their most
efficient use, their quantities should closely approximate those required by the animals.

He reports that extensive research has established that lysine is the amino acid in
barley protein that is in the shortest supply, and that this shortage severely limits the effect-
iveness of barley in hog rations. However, as he points out, this limitation can be overcome
by adding synthetic lysine to barley-type rations. And he says that the addition of lysine
will increase the effectiveness of barley protein by as much as two percentage points, depend-
ing upon the barley's protein content. Hence, the addition of lysine makes it possible to
formulate a ration that contains 2 per cent less protein, and that will still maintain an equally
good animal growth rate.

According to Mr. Jaikaran, most feed manufacturers formulate their hog rations
in accordance with the amino acid requirements, and they add lysine when it is necessary. He
says this is particularly true in the case of hog starters. Feed manufacturers in some par:sof
the United States actually advertise the emphasis they place on the importance of amino
acids, and the fact that they use synthetic amino acids in their formulations. Mr. Jaikaran
believes that this practice creates a greater awareness oh the part of hog producers of the
importance of amino acids.

"Unfortunately", he says, "some of our pork producers are not as amino acid-
conscious as their American counterparts because of the low profile advertising here, and this
fact may be costing them unnecessary money. This is especially likely to be the case in times

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Lysine In Hog Rations (cont'd)

like these when soybean prices are very high and still rising, and when there is every indica-
tion that barley prices may increase by as much as 35 per cent over the next six months."

In advising Alberta hog producers to make every effort to improve the effective-
ness of their feed resources, Mr. Jaikaran points out that the use of lysine in their hog rations
is one of the most important improvements that they can make immediately. And he reports
that hog grower sample rations have shown that savings of $10 per tonne can be realized
when synthetic lysine is used and the protein content is reduced to 14 per cent from 16 per
cent.

He also says the easiest way to take advantage of this potential saving is for a
farmer to ask his feed manufacturer to add the appropriate level of lysine to the farmer's hog
supplement or premix or to ask to have it included in his complete feeds. Many American
companies apparently produce a high lysine 35 per cent hog grower supplement for on-farm
mixing instead of the regular 40 per cent supplement.

Additional information on ration formulations for hogs as well as on the use of
alternative sources of protein like canola can be obtained from Sam Jaikaran, O.S. Longman
Building, 6909 - 1 16 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 4P2 (Telephone: 436-9150).

- 30 -

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"ONE-SHOT" PARASITE CONTROL PRODUCT FOR CATTLE

A new injectable product, known as Ivomec, is now available for the
control of both internal and external cattle parasites.

According to Dr. Ali Khan, pest control specialist with Alberta Agricul-
ture, Ivomec is unique in that it contains the properties of both a drug and an in-
secticide. One subcutaneous injection will control such internal parasites as lung
worms and round worms and such external parasites as warble grubs, cattle lice and
mange mites.

Dr. Khan says Ivomec's greatest advantage is that it controls mange
mites. This means that it will no longer be necessary to dip or spray cattle with an
insecticide in the middle of winter, which is the time when severe mange infesta-
tions most frequently occur.

Another advantage of Ivomec is that it cuts down on the number of
times that the cattle have to be handled. One injection in the fall will control

warble grubs, lice and mange mites.

The recommended dose is one mL of Ivomec for every 50 kg of the
animal's bodyweight. And the cost is about 50c per mL.

-30-

Abex\o

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEEDING VEGETABLES IN THE FALL

Research trials conducted at the Alberta Horticultural Research Center in Brooks
show that some commonly grown home garden vegetables do well and mature earlier when
they are planted in the fall rather than in the spring.

Paul Ragan, research horticulturist at the

center, reports that trials carried out during both mild

and severe winters showed that onion, carrot, parsnip,

spinach and lettuce seeds and garlic cloves respond

well to fall seeding. He says that the seedlings emerge

in April, and that in some years they have emerged as

early as the middle of April. He also says seedling

emergence is good, although at the present time

about 1 0 per cent of the seeds can be expected not The onions on the left were seeded

in the fall. The onions on the right
to germinate. Also, if the spring is dry, it may be were seeded the following spring.

necessary to water the seedlings. Since soils which have a clay content produce a thick crust

that often hinders seedling emergence, a light soil is the best for fall seeding. And the site

should be located in an area that is sheltered from strong winds so that the soil and the seeds

do not blow away.

Mr. Ragan says "tops down" (maturity) in garlic and onions occurs two to three
weeks earlier in fall-seeded crops than in spring-seeded crops, and that carrots are ready to
harvest in early July. However, a period of prolonged hot, dry weather during July will cause

>hone: (403)427-2121

- (cont'd) -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Seeding Vegetables In The Fall (cont'd)

the carrots to produce seed stalks and their roots will become woody, a poor color and
lacking in flavor. Since fall-seeded carrots germinate unevenly, their root size is quite variable,
but this is not a problem with parsnips. Fall-seeded parsnips are ready to harvest in August
and head lettuce matures in late June.

Mr. Ragan says that germination is spotty and plant development tends to be very
variable when cole crops — cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli — are seeded in the fall. Pea,
bean, sweet corn and vine crop seeds do not survive the winter in southern Alberta.

The most critical factor when seeding vegetables in the fall is the date on which
they are sown. Mr. Ragan says, as a general rule, seeding should be done in late October or
early November, and that the soil temperature should be 5 ° C or less, but still manageable.
Ideally, the soilbed should be prepared well in advance of the seeding date and the seeds
should be sown immediately prior to freeze-up. If the seed is sown too early, it will be killed
when the free water in the seed freezes. To survive it must be in a fully dormant, dry state.

According to Mr. Ragan, the concept of seeding vegetables in the fall has been
tried on a commercial scale with onions in southern Alberta with encouraging results. He
says the onions matured earlier than those seeded in the spring and that there were consider-
ably fewer weeds in the fall-seeded crops compared with the spring-seeded crops.

- 30-

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1983 HAYMAKING CUSTOM CHARGES

This year's haymaking custom charges showed a wider range than those of 1982,
but, apart from mowing, the average rate charged by most operators was the same as last
year. Charges for mowing decreased compared with last year's rates.

Gerd Andres of Alberta Agriculture's farm business management branch cites the
fact that more farmers did custom work this summer as one reason for the wider range in
charges. He says many farmers did custom work to lower their per hour machinery costs as
an alternative to achieving lower fixed machinery costs.

The following tables contain summaries of the data collected by Alberta Agricul-
ture in a survey that was conducted in July and August.

Cutting and Conditioning ($ per acre)

Region
South

Central
North

Most Common 1982
$8.00 - $9.00
$7.00- $8.00
$5.00 - $7.50

Range 1983
$5.00-$ 9.00
$5.00 - $ 8 00
$4.00 - $10.00

Most Common 1983
$6.00 - $8.00

$6.00 - $7.00
$5.00 - $7.00

Region
South
Central
North

Most Common 1982
$5.00

$5.00 - $6.00
$4.00 - $5.00

Ba 1 1 ng - Round ($ per bale)
Range 1983
$4.50 - $5.25
$4.50 - $5.00
$4.00 - $7.00

Most Common 1983
$4.50 - $5.25
$5.00

$4.25 - $6.00

(403)427-2121

(cont'd)

A\bex\a

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

1983 Haymaking Custom Charges (cont'd)

Baling and Stacking - Small Square (C per bale)

Region Most Common 1982 Range 1983 Most Common 1983

South 49C- 60C 18C- 58C 55C- 58C

Central 45C - 55C 35C- 55C 40C- 55C

North 50 C- 58C 25 C - 55C 50 C- 55C

The south region consists of the area from Olds south to the American border;
the central region consists of the area from Olds north to Edmonton; and the north region is
the area north of Edmonton and includes the Peace River region.

Mr. Andres reports that the custom charges for baling small square bales ranged
from 25c to 40c per bale compared with 20C to 35C per bale in 1982. And the stacking
charges for small square bales ranged from 17c to 30c per bale compared with 19c to 25c in
1982

The stacking charges for round bales ranged from $1 to $3 per bale, depending
upon the distance involved. The 1982 charges ranged from $2 to $2.50 per bale.

Mr. Andres says Alberta Agriculture will be publishing a directory next spring of
all types of farm custom operators in the province. And he urges custom operators who have
not already contacted the farm business management branch to do so before November 1 if
they would like to be included in the directory. It will list the operator's name, his telephone
number, his nearest town and the service he provides.

Information on all the mam customer operation charges can be obtained from
district agriculturists of from the Farm Business Management Branch, Alberta Agriculture,
Box 2000, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1PO (Telephone: 556-4247).

-30-

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAND USE HEARING TO START IN CALGARY

The Environmental Council of Alberta (ECA) will begin its series of public hear-
ings on maintaining and expanding the province's agricultural land base in Calgary's Jubilee
Auditorium on October 12.

The purpose of the hearings, which have taken nearly three years of preparation,
is to help the Alberta Government, through recommendations from the panel, to develop new
policies for the future use of agricultural land in this province.

The chairman of the ECA panel, Charles Stewart of Wainwright, says he has
received about 60 advance briefs or notices of briefs, and that those he has read have been of
a very high calibre, especially those that have been submitted by individuals. He is hoping
for many more briefs from individuals because he feels they are of great value to the panel.
As he says: "They often express specific points of view on particular concerns." To date
only a few of the briefs have represented the views of urban people, which Mr. Stewart says
is unfortunate because long-term urban interests could very definitely be affected by the
panel's findings.

He suggests that both rural and urban people who were unable, for one reason or
another, to submit a brief attend the hearings anyway and plan to express their points of view
at that time.

The sessions will start at 9:30 a.m. and again at 1 :30 p.m. each day, and there will
be an evening session starting at 7:30 p.m. on the first day of the hearings at each location.

- (cont'd) -

Ahetia

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

3hone: (403)427-2121

Land Use Hearing To Start In Calgary (cont'd)

Following is a list of the places and the dates on which the hearings will be held.

Hanna

Medicine Hat

Olds

Camrose

St. Paul

Wainwright

Evansburg

Barrhead

Peace River
Grande Prairie
Vegreville
Red Deer
Edmonton

Masonic Temple Hall
Continental Inn
Legion Hall
Legion Hall

Senior Citizens' Centre
Centennial Centre
Heritage House
Senior Citizens' Centre

October 25
October 27
November 1
November 3
November 7
November 9
November 15
November 17

Athabasca Hall
Grande Prairie Motor Inn
Elks Hall
Legion Hall
Jubilee Auditorium

Anyone who would like more information on the agricultural land use hearings is
asked to contact the Economic Council of Alberta, 8th Floor, Weber Centre, 5555 Calgary
Trail, Edmonton, Alberta, T9E 2X1 (Telephone: 427-5792). People outside the Edmonton
area can dial 0 and ask for Zenith 06075 for a toll-free call.

November 22
November 24
November 29
December 1
December 5,6 and 7

-30

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PAMI HOLDS OPEN HOUSE

The Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute (PAMI) in Lethbridge will
be holding an open house from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on October 25 and 26.

The PAMI engineers will be discussing air seeders, sprayers and granular
applicators, combines and other farm machinery, fertilizer banding and the results
of their barn and grain aeration fan tests.

Participants will also be able to discuss PAMI's farm machinery test
results and the results of tests on other equipment and facilities. There will be
a large farm machinery display and movies showing air seeder testing, combine test-
ing and combine modifications.

Anyone who would like more information on PAMI's open house
should contact Ed Wiens, Manager and Senior Engineer, Prairie Agricultural Mach-
inery Institute, c/o LCC Campus, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1 K 1 L6 (Telephone: 329-
1212).

-30-

>hone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 10, 1983 15
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WINTER PROTECTION OF TREES AND SHRUBS

■

The main prerequisite to the winter survival of ornamental trees and shrubs in a
cold climate is moist soil around their roots, says Herman Oosterhuis, shelterbelt specialist
with Alberta Agriculture.

He recommends mulching for small trees and shrubs that were planted last summer
and for such ornamental species as hybrid tea roses, which have only borderline hardiness.
Mulching entails spreading 8 to 15 cm of a loose organic material like peat moss around the
base of the tree or shrub. Depending upon the size of the ornamental, the mulching material
should cover an area extending 45 to 75 cm out from the base. Fifteen to about 20 cm of
chopped straw can also be used for mulching, but its insulating quality is inferior to that of
peat moss because it packs down. Both the bulk form of peat moss, which comes by the
cubic metre and the processed form, which comes in plastic bags, have excellent insulating
qualities and are relatively cheap, Mr. Oosterhuis says. And the peat moss can be worked into
the soil in the spring to increase its organic matter content.

The principle behind mulching, which should be done any time after the beginning
of October, is to prevent the frost from penetrating to the roots of the plant before the snow
comes. Once the ground freezes around the roots, they are no longer able to take up moisture
and the tree or shrub is much more likely to winterkill, Mr. Oosterhuis says. And since snow
is one of the best insulating materials, it should not be trampled or disturbed.

Among the ornamentals that Mr. Oosterhuis feels will benefit from mulching are
grafted shrub varieties like double-flowering plums, grafted lilacs, silver-leaved dogwoods,
spirea shrub varieties, junipers, dwarf nest spruce and dwarf cedars.

The winter survival of Dropmore scarlet trumpet honeysuckle and clematis, dwarf
cedars and newly planted small spruce and pine will be helped considerably if they wrapped as

- (cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Winter Protection Of Trees And Shrubs (cont'd)

well as mulched. Mr. Oosterhuis says wrapping should be done about the middle of November,
and that burlap is the most convenient material to use. To wrap honeysuckle vines, detach
them from the wall, bend them back to the ground, and then wrap the burlap around them.
Because the vines of clematis die back every fall, it is only necessary to cover them to a height
of about 45 cm. Then cover the ground around the base with 20 to 25 cm of peat moss.

Three poles tied in the form of a tripod and covered with burlap is probably the
most convenient way of covering junipers, cedars and small spruce and pines.

Except for hybrid tea roses, ornamental trees and shrubs should not be pruned
back at this time of year because it weakens their branches. Since the branches of hybrid teas
will die back naturally, they should be pruned back to within 20 to 25 cm of their base, but
never below the graft.

October 10, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOIL AND WATER ENGINEER APPOINTED

John C. Hermans, head of the soil and water conservation section of Alberta Agri-
culture's conservation and development branch, has announced the appointment of Douwe
Vanderwel to the position of soil and water conservation engineer.

As a provincial specialist, Mr. Vanderwel will provide farmers with expertise on
soil and water conservation engineering as well as on on-farm water management. He will also
act as a resource. person for Alberta Agriculture staff in all the regions of the province, and he
will work closely with agricultural service boards and their fieldmen. He will also work with
Alberta Environment staff in the designing of projects under the Soil Conservation Area Pro-
gram as well as having an input into water resources policy issues and the development of
programs related to agriculture, including drainage, slough consolidation, water erosion, flood
control and soil and water conservation.

Mr. Vanderwel grew up in a small, rural town in southern Ontario. He attended
the Ontario Agricultural College at the University of Guelph and obtained his B.Sc. in water
resources engineering in 1977. Following graduation he became a studies engineer with Water
Survey of Canada. And from 1978-1980 he worked for Ducks Unlimited in Saskatchewan as
a design and field engineer, which involved small water supply and drainage projects. From
1981 until his present appointment he was employed by Acres Consulting of Calgary as a
water resources engineer. His work here involved hydrology and related studies as well as
designing and planning irrigation works.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

>dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Alberta's Cattle Trade With Korea 1

Supreme Court Judge Rules Herbicides Not A Health Hazard 4

Western Canadian Food Promotion Week Planned For Los Angeles 6

Canola And Barley Marketing Comments 8

1983 Silage Custom Charges 10

Focus On The Future Seminar 12

"Workers' Exposure To Herbicides" 14

Director Of Alberta Horticultural Research Center Appointed 15

Appointment Of Post Loan Officer 16

ADC Loans Officer Appointed To Athabasca 17

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Export Trade/

Month r 4KI"7 OCTOBRE
Mois des
exportations

October 17, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA'S CATTLE TRADE WITH KOREA
Korea has been an important market for Alberta's beef and October/

Export Trade/.
Month Vj&

dairy cattle for sometime now.

Even though the province's share of that market declined last
year, compared with the 1981 level, more than 90 per cent of the 6,385 head of beef cattle
that were exported by Canada to Korea originated in Alberta. Strong competition from the
United States and Australia were responsible for the decline in Canada's share of that market,
which totalled 30,000 cattle in 1982.

According to Jackson Gardner of Alberta Agriculture's market development
sector, Korea has set its beef cattle import target at between 70,000 and 100,000 head this
year because of the high price farmers in that country have to pay for cattle and because the
Korean Government is trying to keep the young people on the land by providing them with
training and livestock. He says this volume of imports will provide Alberta suppliers with an
excellent opportunity to increase the number of cattle they ship to the National Livestock
Cooperative Federation (NLCF), Korea's only importer of beef cattle.

Mr. Gardner also says that Alberta suppliers have had some difficulty at certain
times of the year in meeting the weight specifications dictated by the NLCF tenders. This
difficulty has been due to the structure of the Alberta cattle industry, and it has been the
subject of several appeals to the NLCF by Alberta Agriculture's market development sector.
It appears that agency may be at least considering some movement in the direction of a
weight/age combination as opposed to the present weight only requirement.

Mr. Gardner says "We will continue our efforts in this regard during the planned
visits to Alberta of NLCF officials this year as well as at the time of the tentative visit by
the Korean minister of agriculture. He wants to study our cattle raising and marketing

(cont'd]

/<Hborra

AGRICULTURE

(403) 427-21 21 Pr'nt Media Branch

Alberta Cattle Trade With Korea (cont'd)

systems with a view to changing his policies to ensure that Korea receives the best animals
possible." Mr. Gardner also reports that the market development sector supports the idea of
experienced Alberta cattle exporters visiting Korea this year to address the issue and to rein-
force their preferred supplier position.

In an effort to overcome the Koreans considerable lack of knowledge in the areas
of selecting and maintaining beef and dairy cattle, the market development sector, in addition
to promoting the merits of Alberta livestock, is continuing to support technical programs
that are directed at the Korean national experimental station at Suweon and the Korean
animal breeding station at Gangweon. Mr. Gardner says the results of their trials are all
reported to the country's minister of agriculture, and, in some cases, to the president.

And he says "We have hosted a senior official of the experimental station,
Mr. C.Y. Chung, who was here to study our cattle and pasture management programs. We
are also supporting the concept of sending an animal nutritionist from the University of
Alberta to the experimental station in Korea to review their programs. We will pursue, in
cooperation with the University of Alberta, the concept of financially assisting a Korean
student who would like to do his post-graduate work in Alberta. The idea would be that he
would return to a responsible position in the Korean livestock sector. The market devel-
opment sector also intends to host a five-man technical mission to Alberta from the animal
breeding station in Korea to study our livestock and pasture management systems. As
part of our ongoing commitment to Korea, we are prepared to support a visit, on a request
basis, by our livestock consultants to the Korean breeding station."

Mr. Gardner reports that trophies were donated to the beef section of the Korea
National Livestock Show by the market development sector last year. Because the donations
proved so popular, and because the show is held only every two years, the market devel
opment sector intends to donate trophies to the annual show in Gangweon this year.

(cont'd)

/dlborra

AGRICULTURE

>hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Alberta Cattle Trade With Korea (cont'd )

According to Mr. Gardner, Korea plans to import 10,000 head of dairy cattle
this year of which about 3,440 will be bought by the NLCF, 1,000 by the Animal Improve-
ment Association of Korea and 5,560 by the dairy co-ops. All the purchases will be made
through a tender system, and the market development sector plans to make every effort to
ensure that Alberta's export capability is maximized, despite the fact that the province has
only a limited supply of these animals.

-30-

hone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SUPREME COURT JUDGE RULES HERBICIDES
NOT A HEALTH HAZARD

by Dr. Moe Hussain
Pesticides Issues Coordinator, Alberta Agriculture

In a recent landmark decision, Nova Scotia's Supreme Court Justice D. Merlin

Nunn ruled that the use of the herbicides, 2,4-D and 2,4, 5-T, was safe and that the plaintiffs
would have to pay Court costs and damages.

Seventeen Nova Scotia families led by environmentalist and articling lawyer,

Elizabeth May, had brought a mass action suit against Nova Scotia Forest Industries to stop
them using the two herbicides to control brush on forest lands.

During the month-long trial that began last May, Justice Nunn heard testimonies

from several expert witnesses. In his 182-page decision, he said that he was satisfied that the
overwhelming currently accepted view of responsible scientists was that there was little evi-
dence that either 2,4-D or 2,4, 5-T caused cancer or mutations in human beings and that
TCDD, a by-product of 2,4, 5-T, was not an effective cancer-causing agent.

TCDD belongs to a family of chemicals called dioxins and is formed in very

minute quantities as a by-product of 2,4, 5-T during its manufacturing. TCDD has been
labelled as the most toxic of the man-made chemicals and other dioxins that are not toxic
have also been found in 2,4-D. However, since 1979, manufacturers have been required to
eliminate all dioxins from their products, and the federal Department of Agriculture regularly
monitors all products that contain 2,4-D or 2,4, 5-T to ensure they are free of dioxins.

Justice Nunn indicated that any risk to Nova Scotians from the use of 2,4-D and

2,4, 5-T, if indeed there was a risk, was inf in itesi mal ly small. Putting this into perspective, the
judge said that the risk of cancer to a smoker is 1 in 800, while the risk to a person drinking
two litres of water per day from a stream immediately after it has been sprayed with 2,4-D or
2,4, 5-T is one in 100,000 million.

- (cont'd)

•hone: (403)427-2121

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Supreme Court Judge Rules Herbicides Not A Health Hazard (cont'd)

The judge noted that many of the plaintiff's witnesses seemed to refuse to accept
any study results that were contrary to their own views or to accept any criticism of studies
that supported their position. Where a study was done by anyone remotely connected with
industry, there was a tendency on the part of the plaintiff's scientists to leap to the "fox in
the chicken coop" conclusion and to dismiss it as biased. The judge also pointed out that a
true scientific approach did not permit such self-serving selectivity; nor did it so readily decry
a study on the basis of bias.

"I had the opposite impression of the scientific witnesses offered by the defend-
ant" Justice Nunn said. "I did not detect any sense of partisanship. They related their work,
their involvement with the herbicides, the results of their studies and their considerations of
other studies in a professional, scientific manner and I therefore found their opinions to be
reliable and, indeed, I accepted them as such."

The chief justice's decision clears the way for the resumption of the use of 2,4-D
and 2,4, 5-T in Nova Scotia's forests, and it awards Nova Scotia Forest Industries damages and
legal costs that could total half a million dollars. The losers are now contemplating whether
or not to launch an appeal.

-30-

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WESTERN CANADIAN FOOD PROMOTION WEEK
PLANNED FOR LOS ANGELES

A Western Canada Food Promotion Week will be held early Ex ^°^RA
next year by a major grocery chain store in the Los Angeles area of Calif- i^mmexZn^ons

ornia, U.S.A.

The promotion was decided upon during the Western Canadian Grocery Products
Shows that were held in Los Angeles and San Francisco recently. A total of 30 Canadian
companies exhibited grocery products in Los Angeles and 20 exhibited products in San
Francisco. Nine Alberta companies were among the 50 participants. They were Bee Maid
Honey Ltd of Edmonton; Catelli Ltd of Lethbridge; Fletcher's Ltd of Red Deer; Forcrest
Food Ltd of Calgary; Heritage Foods Ltd of Edmonton; Nanton Water International Ltd of
Nanton, Sunland Industries Ltd of Edmonton; Sun Valley Foods Ltd of High River; and
Tri-Dan Confectionery Ltd of Okotoks.

Wilf Walkei, Alberta Agriculture's trade director for West Coast Canada and the
United States, reports that the Western Canada Food Promotion Week will involve several
hundred stores in the Los Angeles area, and that it could be the prelude to the permanent list-
ing of a wide range of Western Canadian grocery products in California.

He also says that the Alberta companies that participated in the shows are now
engaged in negotiating with California food brokers, and that he expects at least 75 per cent
of them to be successful. This would mean that they would be able to sell their products in
the Los Angeles and the San Francisco markets.

Apparently all the Canadian companies that participated in the shows did exten-
sive store surveys while they were in California to assess the competition they would bo up
against and to assess the California market potential. According to Mr. Walker, a number of

(cont'd!

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

lone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Western Canadian Food Promotion Week Planned For Los Angeles (cont'd)

the Los Angeles chain buyers were very interested in many of the grocery products that
were exhibited at the Los Angeles show and said that they would like to have product sales
presentations when the companies have established brokers.

The Western Canadian Grocery Products Shows were initiated by Alberta Agri-
culture's market development section and were sponsored by the Canadian consulates in Los
Angeles and San Francisco.

-30-

lone: (403)427-2121

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CANOLA AND BARLEY MARKETING COMMENTS

by Jack Hazelwood
Three Hills

Marketing canola this fall is a little more exciting than it has been for quite a
while. And right now seems like a good time to consider when and at what price you are
going to "lock-in" the value of your 1 983 crop.

The futures market on September 23, 1983 was as follows:-

November/83 $432.00/tonne (10.96/bu)

January/84 $441 .40/tonne (11.20/bu)

March/84 $445.50/tonne (11.30/bu)

June/84 $448.00/tonne (11.38/bu)

November/84 $395.00/tonne (10.04/bu)

So things are looking pretty good! There will be some movement up and down,
but the general opinion is that we will not see a substantial movement in either direction for
a short while, and then the direction will probably be down. So where does that leave you
with your 1983 crop? In a nutshell, get it priced soon!

Marketing economists are now recommending fixing in a price on this year's
canola crops very soon — probably before the end of October. But do not necessarily do
your whole crop all in one day. Use the daily fluctuations in the market to pick up a few
extra bucks, but do not get greedy and try to hit the top price with all your crop in one shot.
There is a saying that should act as a caution. It is: "The bulls make money, the bears make
money, but the pigs get slaughtered!" Remember, no one knows where that absolute peak is,
so do not base your marketing decisions on trying to hit it.

Let's take a quick look now at the 1984 canola crop. Opinions seem to agree that
we are seeing the highs now. Unless we have another disaster in the U.S. soybean crop next
year, there is a very good chance that canola prices will be significantly lower in the fall of

- (cont'd)

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Canola And Barley Marketing Comments (cont'd)

1984 than they are now. At this time you could probably "lock-in" about $363.75 per
tonne ($8.25 a bushel) through a grain dealer or even better through hedging. The odds are
that the price in the fall of 1984 will be considerably lower.

Just a few quick comments on barley. Unless you are desperate for cash, do not
sell barley off board for a while. The grain industry is anticipating an increase in the initial
payment for barley in the neighborhood of $15 per tonne. We are also expecting a good
quota on barley this year, and right now the difference between barley futures prices and
the price being offered at the elevators is unusually high. Look for barley to come up by
$20 to $30 per tonne (40 c to 60c per bushel) before Christmas.

-30-

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1983 SILAGE CUSTOM CHARGES

The following data on silage custom charges are based on a survey that was
conducted by Alberta Agriculture in August of this year.

Gerd Andres, farm management economist with Alberta Agriculture's farm busi-
ness management branch, says it is hard to compare this year's charges with those of last year
because many farmers used more of their own equipment this year than was the case in 1982.
Last year farmers seemed to hire a custom operator to do the complete silage making opera-
tion, whereas this year they only used a custom operator if they did not have a particular
piece of equipment.

The tables below give the range of charges and the most common charges for for-
age harvesting, swathing and forage harvesting, forage harvesting and hauling, and hauling for
the south region (from High River south to the U.S. border), the central region (from High
River north to Red Deer) and the north-central region (from Red Deer north to Edmonton).
The northern region was not included in the survey because only a little silage is made there.

Forage Harvesting ($ Per Tonne)

Most Common 1983
$3.00 - $6.00

Region
South
Central
North Central

Range 1983
$3.00 - $9.00
$3.50 (one report)
$3.25 - $5.00

$3.25 - $5.00

Region
South
Central
North Central

Swathing and Forage Harvesting ($ Per Tonne)
Range 1983
$5.50 - $7.75
$3.50 - $5.60

(cont'd!

hone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

1 1

1983 Silage Custom Charges (cont'd)

Region
South
Central
North Central

Forage Harvesting and Hauling
Range 1983
$4.00 • $6.50/tonne

$160 - $190/hr (trucks used for hauling)
$ 90-$115/hr

Region
South
Central
North Central

Hauling ($ Per Tonne)
Range 1983
$1.00 - $1.60
$1.30 - $2.00
$1 .80 (one report)

The average custom charge for swathing silage ranged from $5 to $7.50 per acre,
which was very similar to last year's charge.

Alberta Agriculture plans to publish a directory next spring of all types of farm
custom operators in the province. Anyone who would like to be included in the directory
should contact the farm business management branch before November 1 if he has not
already done so. The directory will list the operator's name, his telephone number, his
nearest town and the service he provides.

Information on all the main custom operation charges can be obtained from
district agriculturists, the statistics branch in Edmonton (427-4018) or the Farm Business
Management Branch, Alberta Agriculture, Bag 2000, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1 PO (Telephone:
556-4247).

30 -

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

lone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOCUS ON THE FUTURE SEMINAR

An overview of the international agricultural situation, what to watch for in the
future and how to adjust to the changes is one of the topics that will be covered at the sixth
annual Beef Marketing Seminar which will be held in Ponoka on November 1 0.

This topic will be discussed by R.E. McMaster who is the editor of a newsletter
put out by one of America's largest and most highly respected economic and commodity
advisory services. In fact, in a 1981 survey of 135 of that country's most successful brokers
in 10 top investment firms, the newsletter was voted the "most valuable" and reported to be
"read by the most successful brokers." Mr. McMaster is also president of Cycle III, a $2,400
a-year commodity advisory service, which has the reputation of accurately forecasting market
turning points months ahead, and often to the day.

Michael Walker, also on the agenda, will speak on inflation, interest rates, con-
sumer disposable income and protectionism.

He is a director of the Fraser Institute and has worked at the Bank of Canada in
Ottawa as well as a consultant to the policy branches of the federal department of finance.
He is a regular columnist for "The Financial Post," "The Toronto Sun," "The Province
Equity Magazine," "Citibusiness Magazine," the Sterling newspaper chain and community
newspapers across Canada. Mr. Walker prepares a daily syndicated radio program called
"Perspective" and his commentaries are published monthly in the Forum Series. And he
speaks to a wide variety of groups as well as at conferences and associations across Canada

and the United States.

- (cont'd) -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

(403)427-2121 Print Media Branch

• 2 -

Focus On The Future Seminar (cont'd)

In addition to all this, Mr. Walker is an author and an editor and contributor of
articles on such topics as balancing the budget, flat-rate tax proposals, the national energy
program, rent control, unions and the public, interest, discrimination, affirmative action,
equal opportunity, privatization and tax facts.

Harvey Dann, a former feedlot farm manager from Manitoba who is now the
market analyst specialist at Canfax, will speak on the long-term supply and price outlook
for cows and calves and for feeder and fat cattle.

The Beef Marketing Seminar will begin at 8:30 a.m. on November 10 and con-
clude at 4:30 p.m. A preregistration fee of $30 per person (includes lunch) or $40 for a
husband and wife must be submitted to Alberta Agriculture's district office in Ponoka before
4:30 p.m. on November 8. Cheques should be made payable to the Ponoka Education
Account.

Additional information can be obtained from Rick Williams, District Agricul-
turist, Alberta Agriculture, Box 70, Ponoka, Alberta, TOC 2HO (Telephone: 783-4476).

-30-

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

"WORKERS' EXPOSURE TO HERBICIDES"

The Alberta Environmental Centre will be holding a seminar entitled
"Workers' Exposure to Herbicides" in Vegreville on October 26.

It will be given by Dr. Raj Grover, head of environmental chemistry in

the herbicides section of the federal research station in Regina, Saskatchewan, and
it will cover the use of aerial and ground applicators for 2,4-D as well as provide
guidelines for minimizing the exposure hazard.

The seminar will start at 2 p.m. in the main conference room at the
centre. Further information can be obtained by telephoning Dr. S. Ramamoorthy
at 632-6761

-30-

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DIRECTOR OF ALBERTA HORTICULTURAL
RESEARCH CENTER APPOINTED

Dr. John Wiebe, director of Alberta Agriculture's plant industry division, has
announced the appointment of Thomas R. Krahn to the position of director of the Alberta
Horticultural Research Center at Brooks.

As director of the center, Mr. Krahn will work
closely with producer commodity groups and the various
industry advisory committees. He will be responsible for
ensuring that the research and extension programming
conducted by the center's 14 professional staff meet the
needs of the horticultural and special crops industry. The
center has a total staff complement of 50. The director is

also expected to provide horticulture policy and program Thomas Krahn, director of the

Alberta Horticultural Research
advice to senior department officials. Center at Brooks.

Mr. Krahn was raised on an irrigated specialty crop farm near Taber, where pro-
cessing vegetables, sugar beets and potatoes were an integral part of the operation. He att-
ended high school in Taber and graduated from the University of Alberta with a B.Sc. (agri-
culture) in 1967, having specialized in plant science. He obtained an M.Sc. (horticulture)
from Michigan State University, U.S.A. in 1973, and he has attended the Banff School of
Advanced Management.

Mr. Krahn has been employed by Alberta Agriculture since 1967 and has spent all
his working career at the Alberta Horticultural Research Center. During this time he has
worked in direct extension with a number of commodity groups, and has carried the center's
program in horticultural product storage and handling research. He has also been head of the
center's laboratory services section for the last eight years.

Mr. Krahn, who is married and has two children, lives in Brooks.

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

(403)427-2121

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

APPOINTMENT OF POST LOAN CONTROL OFFICER

Bob Thompson, general manager of lending with the Alberta Agricul-
tural Development Corporation (AADC) has announced the appointment of Brian
V. Moore to position of post loan control officer.

Mr. Moore will be responsible for monitoring accounts that require
special financial or production supervision as well as for supervising the administra-
tion of incentives and for co-operation with farm counsellors.

He graduated from the University of Alberta with a B.Sc. in 1978 and
he joined AADC as a loans officer in December of that year. He covered such areas
as Red Deer, Westlock and Stettler.

Mr. Moore, his wife and young son will be moving to Camrose in the

near future.

- 30 -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 17, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADC LOANS OFFICER APPOINTED TO ATHABASCA

Lyle Roberts, the Alberta Agricultural Development Corporation's
(AADC) regional manager in Barrhead, has announced the appointment of
Anthony Goldthorpe to the position of loans officer in Athabasca.

Mr. Goldthorpe was born and raised on a farm in England. He has 15
years experience in the banking industry where he served farm communities, and
he has been with AADC for two years as a loans officer in Grande Prairie.

His hobbies include skiing, curling and boating, which he plans to cont-
inue doing in the Athabasca area.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Member Of Surface Rights Board Appointed 1

Regional Director Appointments And Transfers 2

Trips To The Doctor Now Tax Deductible 4

Canola Meal To Be Tested In Mexican Hog And Poultry Trials 6

Alberta-Bred Horses Popular In Europe 8

Alberta Honey Situation And Outlook 10

Society For Range Management Grazing Seminar 12

Seed Technology Workshop 14

Farm Wives Conference 15

Late Fall Snow Mould Control 17

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEMBER OF SURFACE RIGHTS BOARD APPOINTED

LeRoy Fjordbotten, Alberta's minister of agriculture, is pleased to
announce the appointment of A.D. MacKenzie as a member of the Surface Rights
Board.

Mr. MacKenzie obtained a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in
animal science in 1967 and a Master of Science in Agriculture in 1970. He is also
a graduate of the Olds Agricultural College.

Mr. MacKenzie joined Alberta Agriculture in 1968 as district agricul-
turist at Stettler. During 1970 and 1971 he was supervisor of publications and
visual aids and from 1972 to 1976 he served as district agriculturist at Calgary.

In 1976, he was promoted to the position of tegional director for the
Peace Region headquartered at Fairview, and in 1980 he was transferred to the
position of regional director at Red Deer.

Mr. MacKenzie brings a broad background of experience to his new
position which he will assume on November 1 .

-30

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REGIONAL DIRECTOR APPOINTMENTS AND TRANSFERS

W.J. Dent, assistant deputy minister with Alberta Agriculture, is pleased to
announce transfers and appointments of regional directors within the department's field
services sector.

is a graduate of the University of Alberta and Olds Agricultural College. He spent 20 years
with Canada Packers; the last eight as their poultry manager in Edmonton. He joined Alberta
Agriculture in 1969 as regional poultry specialist at Lethbridge.

In 1972, he was promoted to the position of regional director at Lethbridge,
a position which he has held until his transfer to Airdrie.

E.H. (Eric) Horton has been appointed regional director at Lethbridge.
Mr. Horton is a graduate of the Vermilion School of Agriculture and the University of
Alberta.

He first ioined Alberta Agriculture in 1954 as <in assistant district agriculturist at
Edmonton. In 1955 he joined Dow Chemical Company of Canada, serving as their sales
representative for Manitoba and Saskatchewan, as the Western marketing manager for their
Bio Product Division; and later as the national marketing manager for the same division.
During 1963 and 1964, Mr. Horton operated a beef and grain farm at Heinsburg, Alberta. He
then rejoined Alberta Agriculture as an instructor at Vermilon College.

Development Corporation at Camrose, and in 1980 he was appointed regional director at
Fairview.

D.R. (Don) Young has been appointed regional director at Fairview.
Mr. Young is a graduate of the University of Alberta. He joined Alberta Agri-
culture in 1969 as a district agriculturist at Leduc and was promoted to senior district

C.S. (Sherry) Clark has been appointed regional director at Airdrie. Mr. Clark

In 1972, he was appointed manager of lending with the Alberta Agricultural

- (cont'd) -

>hone: (403)427-2121

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Regional Director Appointments And Transfers (cont'd)

agriculturist in 1975. In 1976 he was transferred to Wetaskiwin and in 1981 was appointed
assistant director of extension in Edmonton.

W.A. (Alan) Hall has been appointed regional director at Red Deer, succeeding
A.D. MacKenzie who has been appointed to the Surface Rights Board.

Mr. Hall joined Alberta Agriculture's district agriculturist service in the County
of Strathcona in 1972 and has also served in the M.D. of Sturgeon. In 1973 he was appointed
district agriculturist at Westlock, and in 1978 he was appointed as a senior district agricul-
turist, continuing to be stationed at Westlock.

J.B. (John) Tackaberry will continue to serve as regional director at Barrhead and
R.F. (Ralph) Berkan will remain regional director at Vermilion.

-30-

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TRIPS TO THE DOCTOR NOW TAX DEDUCTIBLE

If a person has to travel a long distance from his or her home to a doctor's office
or to a hospital, he or she may quality for a tax deductible expense.

Dan Hilsenteger, farm management economist with Alberta Agriculture, reports
that recent changes to the Income Tax Act allow an individual to claim reasonable travelling
expenses when they are necessary to obtain medical services. He points out, however, that
the patient must be transporting himself, his spouse or a dependant, and that the route
travelled must be reasonably direct, considering the circumstances. The distance must be in
excess of 80 km one way, and similar medical services must not be available closer to home.
The method of transportation can be by air, water or land vehicles.

When a patient goes by car, he can include the cost of the gas for his car, meals,
lodgings and any other reasonable expense related to the trip. I f an attendant is required, and
a doctor verifies this in writing, the meals and lodging for one attendant can be included as an
expense.

Mr. Hilsenteger stresses that it is essential for a person who wants to deduct the
cost of his trips to his doctor or to a hospital for tax purposes to keep all his receipts as proof
of his expenses. These should be added to other allowable medical expenses, such as eye-
glasses, crutches, dental expenses, when these are not covered by a dental plan, etc. Mr. Hils-
enteger suggests that anyone who does not know what expenses qualify as an allowable med
ical expense ask Revenue Canada for their pamphlet that lists them.

He also points out that an income earner is entitled to claim any medical expenses
that exceed 3 per cent of his or her net income as a tax deduction. Here is an example of
how it works.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Trips To The Doctor Now Tax Deductible (cont'd)

Jolly Rodger and his wife, Betty, had total medical expenses for themselves and
their two children of $1 ,1 00 in 1 983. Mr. Rodger's net income was $25,000. Three per cent
of his net income would be $750, so he would be allowed to deduct $350 from his net
income ($1,100 -$750 = $350).

According to Mr. Hilsenteger, it is possible, and in many cases beneficial, when
both spouses have a salary, for the one who has the lower income to claim the medical
expenses. However, he suggests that individuals in this situation ask their tax adviser to cal-
culate which spouse should make the claim.

He also recommends that people keep track of their charitable donations next
year because legislation that is presently being proposed would eliminate the $100 standard
deduction for medical expenses and charitable donations in 1984.

- 30 -

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CANOLA MEAl. TO BE TESTED IN MEXICAN
HOG AND POULTRY TRIALS

The Mexicans will be testing Alberta canola meal in the near Ejtpor, Trade//>\_

Month W^L_Z.OCTOBR1

future in a large commercial hog operation and in a large commercial y^mm^pona^m

broiler operation in the Guadalajara area.

John Latham, international trade director with Alberta Agriculture's market
development sector, reports that Mexican feed formulators and feed users have become aware
of Canadian canola meal as a result of trade and technical missions to Mexico and a trade
mission to Canada from Mexico. He says Mexican livestock and poultry men are interested in
finding alternative sources of protein that are cost-competitive with existing sources and that
are readily available. At the present time they are planning to use Alberta - grown canola
meal as a partial substitute for soybean meal.

Alberta Agriculture and the Canola Council of Canada will be funding the Mex-
ican trials, which are expected to last for about six months. And the market development
sector has hired an Alberta-based consultant to design the trials and to set them up in Mexico.

Mr. Latham says Mexico's balanced feed industry is made up of 59 companies
that operate 84 feedmills in 24 of the country's 32 states. Altogether they have a production
capacity of 6.4 million tonnes per year.

The demand for animal and poultry feed has been growing so rapidly in Mexico
during the past 10 years that the feed industry in that country has made massive investments
in facilities to increase its feed production.

According to Mr. Latham, feed production rose from about 2 million tonnes in
1970 to an estimated 4.2 million tonnes in 1980 or by more than 100 per cent. To satisfy
this growing demand for feed, balanced feed production is projected to reach just over 6
million tonnes by the end of 1984.

(cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Canola Meal To Be Tested In Mexican Hog And Poultry Trials (cont'd )

In 1980 approximately 30 per cent of Mexico's feed was used in broiler formula-
tions, 28 per cent was used for swine, 23 per cent for laying hens, 14 per cent for dairy cattle,
3 per cent for beef cattle and the remaining 2 per cent for other animals.

Mr. Latham believes that there is a potential market in Mexico for about 8,000
tonnes of Alberta-grown canola meal.

- 30 -

October 24, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA-8RED HORSES POPULAR IN EUROPE

People in Europe are now riding Alberta-bred horses and the October
market for these animals is growing!

According to Bryan Walton, an associate trade director with
Alberta Agriculture's market development division, Alberta horse breeders and trainers who
have travelled to Europe to promote their animals, to present riding clinics and to attend
shows are the people responsible for the present popularity of Western riding in Europe.

He says market development division staff identified the European market poten-
tial for Alberta's high quality riding horses in the late 1970's, and that the first substantive

move to participate in that market was focussed on West Germany's Equitana Horse Trade
Fair in Essen. In this case, both the federal and provincial governments provided assistance
for breeders who wanted to exhibit horses at the show, and the exhibits consisted of Quarter-
horses, Appaloosas and Arabians. Six horses were sold at the fair, numerous contacts were
developed and Alberta horse trainers began to conduct Western riding clinics in West Germ-
any. These were considered to be a crucial post-sale service because the education of the
European buyer is a very important part of cultivating such markets. Since that time Western
riding clinics have become very popular in many European countries.

Mr. Walton also says sales agents and Alberta-German breed association affilia-
tions have had the desired impact on European buyers. He points out that Alberta breeders
attended subsequent horse shows in Germany while they were preparing for the 1983 Equit-
ana, which was held last month.

(cont'd) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone: (403)427-2121

Alberta-Bred Horses Popular In Europe (cont'd)

The Albertans took a large number of horses to this show, which again proved to
be a great success. Mr. Walton reports that 10 horses were sold at the show and that two
more were ordered later. However, most important of all, it became apparent at Equitana
that European buyers are beginning to notice Alberta's horses and its Western riders. Italy,
France and Austria, for example, have indicated an interest in purchasing Alberta-bred horses.

Mr. Walton says "The impact of this international exposure began to ripple across
the Atlantic to Alberta when European buyers began to come here in increasing numbers.
And the promoter of Equitana, the largest horse show in the world, decided to hold a North
American Equitana in Alberta."

The first ever North American Equitana took place at Spruce Meadows in Calgary
from September 7-11 in conjunction with the Spruce Meadows Masters Tournament. Al-
though smaller than its German counterpart, it had the international flavor that generated
enough interest and enthusiasm for another North American Equitana.

According to Mr. Walton, the West German media and the general public have
been captivated by Western riding horses. A German television crew, which spent three
weeks in Alberta filming a one hour "special" on horses is evidence of this interest. The crew
travelled the length and breadth of the province with the guidance of horse breeders and
Alberta Agriculture's horse industry branch staff. The film will be aired later this year to an
estimated audience of 10 million Germans, and it will then be sold to other European in-
terests, thereby giving Alberta-bred horses even more exposure.

As a result of their success in Germany, Alberta's horse breed organizations are
planning to attend shows in Italy and France. They feel that their presence in foreign
markets, in addition to bringing horse sales, brings such spin-offs as the sale of tack, clothing
and related horse equipment as well as helping the Alberta tourist industry.

- 30

October 24, 1983 10

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA HONEY SITUATION AND OUTLOOK

Alberta bulk honey prices are expected to remain in the $1.30 to $1.38 per kg
range this year, which is similar to what they were in 1982. However, beekeepers' returns in
most areas will be better than they were last year because of higher yields.

Alberta Agriculture's special commodities analyst, Fred Boyce, expects Canadian
honey exports to the United States to increase, but he points out that stiff competition from
Mexico, Australia and a number of other countries will limit price advances. Although
significant European sales could boost prices, the ample worldwide supply of honey will
probably keep them at about their present level.

Alberta's 1983 honey crop is forecast to be 11.3 million kg, which would be up
by nearly 38 per cent compared with last year's crop of 8.2 million and by 23 per cent comp-
ared with the 10-year average of 9.26 million kg. Mr. Boyce says good yields, especially in
the Peace River and other northern regions of the province, were responsible for this year's
increase in production because the estimated number of colonies ( 1 72,000) was down slightly
compared with 1982 (174,000). However, the honey crop in the southern part of the prov-
ince was very disappointing. This region did not receive as much rain as the Peace River and
other northern areas, and the hot weather in August further reduced the already below
normal nectar flow. The honey crop in the central part of the province is expected to be in
line with the long-term average.

Because honey supplies in Alberta will be very large this year, and because domes-
tic consumption of honey is relatively stable, large export sales will be needed to move the
1983 crop. Recent reported sales of honey to the United States, Canada's major honey
market, were bringing 48c to 56c (US) per pound including containers F.O.B. Canadian
shipping point.

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- (cont'd) -

'hone: (403)427-2121

Alber a Honey Situation And Outlook (cont'd)

According to Mr. Boyce, the average American support price for honey is 62.2c
(US) per pound and many American beekeepers are putting their honey under government
loans because dealers can buy Canadian and Mexican honey more cheaply. He reports that
wholesale prices in Canada are unchanged to slightly higher than they were last year, and that
prices to beekeepers are likely to be little changed from last year.

- 30 -

October 24, 1983 12
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOCIETY FOR RANGE MANAGEMENT GRAZING SEMINAR

The practical application of the Savory Grazing Method and the use of Landsat
Imagery to improve ranch and pasture management are two of the topics that will be covered
at the International Mountain Section of the Society for Range Management's Grazing
Seminar, which will be held at the El Rancho Motor Hotel in Lethbridge on the afternoon of
November 5.

Now being used on several ranches in Alberta, the Savory Grazing Method will be
discussed by Blake Holtman who had been using it on his ranch near Hays for three years.
Basically, it is a high intensity, short duration grazing scheme that may or may not involve
the use of a cell. The cell, which is the area where the animal handling facilities and the water-
ing facilities are located, is the hub out of which anywhere from five to 42 pie-shaped pas-
tures radiate.

The Landsat data, which had been collected by satellites that circle the earth few
days, will be examined at the seminar, and its usefulness to southern Alberta ranchers from
the point of view of making the best use of their grazing land will be discussed.

The Grazing Trial at Oyen and the Sheep Grazing Reserve Irrigation Project at
Hays are also on the agenda. The Oyen Grazing Trial was designed to compare the average
daily gains of cows and calves on pastures seeded to Russian wild ryegrass with the average
daily gains of cows and calves on native range land.

The Sheep Grazing Reserve Irrigation Project involves the use of a pivot irrigation
system as opposed to the commonly used flood irrigation system. It will be evaluated from
the point of view of its value for sheep rather than cattle.

(cont'd)

•hone: (403) 427-21 21

Aha\a

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Society For Range Management Grazing Seminar (cont'd)

Anyone who is interested in range management is invited to attend the Grazing
Seminar, which will start at 1 :00 p.m., and the annual meeting of the International Mountain
Section of the Society for Range Management, which will start at 9 a.m. The fee for the sem-
inar will be $5 per person and the cost of the banquet, which will feature an after dinner
speaker on range improvement ill Alberta, will be $10 per person.

Additional information on the seminar, annual meeting or the banquet can be
obtained from Bob Wroe in Lacombe at 782-4641 .

- 30 -

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEED TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOP

Anyone who would like to attend the Seed Technology Workshop at
Olds College on November 14, 15 and 16 must register with the college by Nov-
ember 7.

The workshop has been designed tor seed growers, seed buyers, seed
cleaning plant personnel and seed company representatives. It will provide the
latest technological information that is applicable to the seed industry.

Topics on the agenda will include: seed production; weeds; weed
control; seed cleaning; germination testing; seed drying; special testing; an author-
ized establishment for cleaning, grading and tagging seed; and microcomputers in
the seed industry.

The workshop will also include a question period and a tour of the
college campus.

The cost of the workshop will be $125, which will include a barbeque,
a wine and cheese party, coffee and a three-ring binder. A non-refundable deposit
of $30 must accompany the registration form which can be obtained from district
agriculturists. Cheques should be made payable to Olds College and forwarded
with the registration form to the Department of Continuing Education, Olds
College, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1PO.

Further information on the workshop and information on accommoda-
tion can be obtained from Bill Witbeck at 782-4641 or from Olds College at
556-8281.

- 30 -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

October 24, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FARM WIVES CONFERENCE

"Living and Learning" is the theme of this year's Farm Wives Conference, which
will be held in Manning on November 16 and 17.

It was planned and organized by a committee of farm women and the district
home economists in the Peace region, and it costs only $20 for the two days, including
lunches.

Bob Simmerman, Alberta Agriculture's leadership training specialist at Airdrie,
will start off the conference by a discussion on ideas for lifelong learning. His talk will be
followed by lunch after which participants will choose the topics they would like to take in
the select-a-session part of the program.

Following are among the topics from which they will be able to choose.

"A Computer in Your Future?" — Regional economist George Monner and
family resource management specialist, Jean Wilson, will demonstrate what computers can
do. And each participant will have a computer on which to experiment. Enrollment in this
session is limited.

"Wanted . . . Farm Help" — Merle Good and Dan Hilsenteger, Alberta Agri-
culture's agricultural economists at Olds, will outline some of the farm labor programs that
are available. And they will explain why it is a good idea to pay a spouse or a child a salary
as well as point out who can be paid and how much.

"Its About Time" — Pauline McCardle, Alberta Agriculture's family resource
management specialist at Airdrie, will discuss time management skills that have been designed
to help people to cope with stress.

"Lets Talk It Over" - Suzanne Atkinson, who is with the Mental Health
Services in Peace River, will analyze effective family communication, conflict resolution,
negotiations and decision making. Husbands are encouraged to accompany their wives to this
session.

alberta

- (cont'd) - AGRICULTURE
Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Farm Wives Conference (cont'd)

The above are only a few of the select-a-session topics on this year's agenda.
Anyone who would like to know what the others are can obtain a brochure outlining them
and a registration form from her district home economist.

November 7 is the deadline for registering for the Farm Wives Conference.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LATE FALL SNOW MOULD CONTROL

Snow mold on Kentucky bhtegrass.

Just before the first permanent snow arrives is the time that homeowners who
have had severe snow mould damage on their lawns in the past, and who want to use a fungi-
cide should apply it, says Alberta Agriculture's sod and home garden specialist, Lorraine
Taylor.

Although the fungi that cause this disease do their damage to lawns and other
turfed areas during the fall and winter, the damage actually manifests itself in the early spring
when the snow is melting. At this time a lawn that is diseased will have patches or may even
become covered with a cottony growth. And in severe cases patches of grass will have been
killed. Unless the grass has been severely damaged, the recommended procedure is to rake or
brush the matted material off the lawn as soon as it becomes visible in the spring.

The fungi that cause snow mould are low-temperature fungi, and there are at least
four types in Alberta. The damage they do to golf courses and on sod farms can be very
severe indeed.

- (cont'd) -

Aba\a

AGRICULTURE

'hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Late Fall Snow Mould Control (cont'd)

Ms. Taylor says the severity of the disease will depend upon the weather and the
conditions of the turf. An early snowfall on wet, unfrozen ground and a heavy snowfall that
lasts into the late spring are the conditions that most favor this disease.

The chances are that a lawn that had snow mould last spring will have it again
next spring, but the damaged caused, except in severe cases, can be reduced by hardening off
the turf in the fall. This means that the grass should not be fertilized within six weeks of
freeze-up and that watering should be gradually reduced towards the end of the growing
season. And the grass should be cut at the same height as it was cut during the summer
before winter sets in. Long grass encourages the growth of snow mould.

Home owners who have had severe problems with snow mould in the past can
treat their lawns with either Benlate or Easout according to the manufacturers' directions.

-30-

October 31, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Feeding Light Weight Barley To Feedlot Cattle 1

Field Peas In Swine Rations 3

1983 Custom Rates Charged For Fertilizer Applications 5

Alberta Fresh Vegetable Prices 7

Water Erosion Film Released By Alberta Agriculture 9

Negotiating Surface Rights 11

Guide To Farm Accounting And Management Terms 13

Loans Officers Appointed To Fort Vermilion, Peace River And Grande Prairie . .14
ADC Loans Officer Appointed To Red Deer 16

Phone:(403)427-2121

ydlborta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

October 31, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEEDING LIGHTWEIGHT BARLEY TO FEEDLOT CATTLE

A considerable proportion of Alberta's barley crop has a lower than normal
bushel weight this year, and the general feeling is that the feeding value of light weight barley
in high grain feedlot cattle rations is lower than that of normal barley.

According to the head of Alberta Agriculture's animal nutrition section, Ron
Weisenburger, very limited research has been done to date to determine the difference in the
feeding value of light bushel weight and normal bushel weight barley. He says only three
studies in which the starting test weight of steers ranged from 725 to 867 pounds, and in
which the proportion of barley in the rations ranged from 65 to 90 per cent, have been repor-
ted in the last 20 years. The first was conducted in Montana in the early 1960's, the second
was conducted in Idaho in the late 1970's and the third was conducted at the University of
Alberta this year.

In the Montana study, which involved only eight steers on 42-pound per bushel
barley and eight on 52-pound per bushel barley, the steers on the light bushel weight barley
gained 3.7 per cent less than those on the normal bushel weight barley, and their feed to gain
ratio was 3.9 per cent poorer. However, as Mr. Weisenburger points out, the differences were
not statistically significant.

In the Idaho study, which involved 16 steers on 42-pound per bushel barley and
16 on 51-pound per bushel barley, the steers on the light bushel weight barley gained 1 1.3
per cent less than those on the normal bushel weight barley, and their feed to gain ratio was
9.3 per cent poorer. In this study the decrease in average daily gain was significant statist-
ically, but there was no difference in the carcass fat cover or grade between the two groups.

In the Alberta study, which involved 30 steers on 34-pound per bushel barley and
30 steers on 52-pound per bushel barley, the steers on the light weight barley gain 0.7 per
cent better than those on the normal bushel weight barley, but their feed to gain ratio was

(cont'd!

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Feeding Light Weight Barley To Feedlot Cattle (cont'd)

3.2 per cent poorer. Again, these values were not significantly different statistically and there
was no difference in carcass fat cover or grade between the groups.

"Although the reduction in animal performance from feeding lightweight barley
was relatively small in these studies" says Mr. Weisenburger, "it appears that light weight
barley is worth less than heavy barley in high grain cattle rations when one considers the
combined effect of more barley being required per unit of gain and a longer feeding period."

He stresses that the main thing to remember when feeding light bushel weight
barley is to feed it by weight; not by volume. And he says the fact that a bushel of 34-pound
per bushel barley has the same volume as a bushel of 48-pound per bushel barley, but weighs
14 pound less, must be taken into consideration when the feed is being mixed and again when
it is being measured for actual feeding.

- 30 -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FIELD PEAS IN SWINE RATIONS

Field oe.~s have been successfully fed as a protein supplement to pigs.

According to Alberta Agriculture's monogastric nutritionist, Sam Jaikaran, field
peas can replace part or all of the other protein ingredients, like soymeal and canola meal, in
swine rations and their use could save feed costs.

Today more and more field peas are being grown on the Prairies as a rotational
crop with cereal grains. And Mr. Jaikaran says Alberta-grown field peas usually contain be-
tween 20 and 25 per cent protein. He also says the nutritional quality and palatability of
field peas in rwir;e rations appears to be excellent, and that their protein digestibility is about
90 per cent.

Although field pea protein contains a good balance of amino acids for pigs, it

should be noted, says Mr. Jaikaran, that its methionine content is lower than that in tradi-
tionally used protein supplements. However, this lower level of methionine is apparently not
critical for pigs because good performance has been obtained from cereal-field pea rations
that have been properly fortified with minerals and vitamins.

Mr. Jaikaran reports that research, carried out at various universities and in field
trials, has shown that field peas can supply all the supplementary protein that is needed in
crower-finisher swine rations, and that they can produce satisfactory weight gains in growing
pigs. However, this research was done on rations which had been formulated with barley that
had an average protein content of from 1 1 .5 to 12 per cent and field peas that had an average
protein content of about 24 per cent. Because of the variability of the protein content (from
R to 16 oer cent) of barley that is used on the farm, and the variability in the protein content
r>f field oeas (from 10 to 26 per cent), Mr. Jaikaran feels it is not practical to recommend that

field peas be used to provide all the additional protein required by pigs. He points out

< ■

- (cont'd) -

><l!berra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Field 3eas In Swine Rations (coht'd)

that to achieve the required level of protein it might be necessary, in some cases, for the
ration to consist of more than 60 per cent peas. However, since there could be an imbalance
of certain amino acids under such circumstances, which would reduce the growth of the pigs,
it is recommended that not more than about 30 per cent of swine rations be made up of field
peas.

Mr. Jaikaran advises pig producers to have protein analyses done on both the
barley and the field peas that they plan to feed so that they can make the best possible use of
the peas that are available.

Further information on formulating and/or feeding field peas can be obtained
from Sam Jaikaran, Alberta Agriculture, O.S.Longman Building, 6909-1 16 Street, Edmonton,
Alberta, T6H 4P2 (Telephone: 436-9150).

- 30 -

October 31, 1933

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1983 CUSTOM RATES CHARGED FOR FERTI LIZER APPLICATI ONS

Custom rates charged for fertilizer applications this year varied little from those
that were charged in 1982, according to a survey conducted last June and July by Alberta
Agriculture.

The following table shows the fertilizer application rates that were charged in
Alberta on a per acre basis.

Region Most Common 1982 Range 1983 Most Common 1983

South $2.50 -$3.00 $1.50 -$3.50 $2.50 - $3.00

Central $2.50 - $2.75 $1.75 -$3.00 $2.25 - $2.75

North $2.50 - $3.00 $1 .00 - $3.50 $2.75 - $3.25

The south region consists of the area from Olds south to the American border,
while the central region consists of the area from Olds north to Edmonton. The north
region is the area north of Edmonton and includes the Peace River region.

According to Peggy Johnson of Alberta Agriculture's farm business management
branch, 52 per cent of the applicators contacted in the survey used a truck-mounted applica-
tor and charged from $2.75 to $3.25 per acre. Twenty-nine per cent used a floater applicator
and charged from $2.25 to $3 per acre, and the remaining 19 per cent used a pull-type appli
cator and charged from $2.50 to $2.75 per acre.

(cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2

1983 Custom Rates Charged For Fertilizer Applications (cont'd)

The survey also showed that the price of anhydrous ammonia fertilizer applica-
tions decreased by 25 per cent compared with 1982.

The following table shows the rates charged for anhydrous ammonia applica-
tions on a per tonne basis.

Region Most Common 1982 Range 1983 Most Common 1983

South $475 -$495 $385 - $460 $410 -$425

Central $475 - $495 $370 - $430 $415 - $430

North $452 - $460 $41 3 - $450 $420 - $450

Ms. Johnson says that a publication entitled "Custom Rates Annual Survey
Summary — 1983", due to be released by the farm business management branch in April
1984, will contain a more detailed range of custom rates charged for fertilizer and other types
of custom operations this year.

In the meantime, more information on custom rates for all types of operations
can be obtained from district agriculturists, from Alberta Agriculture's farm business man-
agement branch in Olds at 556-4247 or from Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch in
Edmonton at 427-4018.

October 31, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA FRESH VEGETABLE PRICES

Alberta fresh vegetable growers are expected to continue to receive favorable
prices for their produce.

Alberta Agriculture's special commodities analyst, Fred Boyce, says lower veg-
etable production in Manitoba and in several key areas of the United States will lessen the
competition faced by Alberta growers, and, thereby, enable the present favorable prices to
continue.

He reports that California weather problems earlier this year resulted in a smaller
than usual carrot crop in that state, which allowed carrot prices to move upwards, and that
Alberta carrots have been moving well at current prices. However, he thinks the province's
large carrot crop will limit further price increases.

In the case of onions, the American main crop is expected to be down by 1 1 per
cent from last year. This drop reflects both a reduction in acreage and yield compared with
the 1982 crop. However, the state of Washington has a good crop of onions and imports by
Alberta from that state will prevent a significant upward price movement in locally-grown
onions, Mr. Boyce says.

According to Mr. Boyce, Alberta has ample supplies of locally-grown carrots,
onions, cabbage, parsnips, squash and rutabagas, which are expected to keep the market well
supplied into the new year.

The production level and quality of Alberta's 1983 vegetable crops has been
generally described as good. Yields in the irrigated areas of the southern part of the province
were average or better than average, while those in central and northern regions have been
described as average at best.

(cont'd!

3hone: (403)427-2121

Ahexio

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Alberta Fresh Vegetable Prices (cont'd)

The vegetable acreage registered with the Alberta Fresh Vegetable Marketing
Board increased this year to 3,055 acres, representing a 9 per cent increase compared with
the 1982 figure of 2,811 acres. The acreage of nearly all the vegetables, except for onions
and fresh corn, which were down by 3 and 6 per cent respectively, was up from last year.
The six main crops: carrots, onions, cabbage, sweet corn, cucumbers and rutabagas accounted
for more than 82 per cent of the acreage registered with the Alberta Fresh Vegetable Market-
ing Board this year.

-30-

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WATER EROSION FILM RELEASED BY ALBERTA AGRICULTURE

Wind, Water, Spring Run-Off! What is Alberta Agriculture's response to the des-
tructive effects of these elements? It is not a resigned shrug; it is a voice of concern in the
form of a new film entitled "Oh Gully, Where's the Soil".

The 20 minute film provides insights into
the techniques that farmers can use to conserve their
soil and it exposes the need for water management
on Alberta farms, where the land is being continually
undermined by the corrosive effects of erosion. Wind,
water and the spring run-off leave scars on the land
surface that farmers must work around, and scars that
reduce the productivity of the land.

According to the head of Alberta Agriculture's
soil and water conservation section, John Hermans, the

amount of soil that is lost each year from water erosion is Cameraman, Jim Tustian straddles

a deep gully to film the devastating
difficult to estimate. However, he says a typical rill that effects of water erosion that

are shown in the film

is three feet wide and only two or three inches deep can "Oh Gully, Where is the Soil".

cause the loss of as much as 200 tons of soil per acre, and that this type of situation can only
be remedied by increasing farmers' awareness of the gravity of the problem and by encourag-
ing them to adopt the necessary management measures.

In addition to documenting the problem of water erosion in Alberta, "Oh Gully,
Where's the Soil" is intended to initiate concern on the part of farmers and to encourage

- (cont'd) -

/dlborra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Water Erosion Film Released By Alberta Agriculture (cont'd)

them to take the necessary relief measures. It is the first in a series of three films that re-
present part of Alberta Agriculture's continuing effort to keep the soil where it belongs. The
other two films will deal with wind erosion and soil salinity.

"Oh Gully, Where's the Soil" was produced by Tustian Film Productions for
Alberta Agriculture and can be borrowed, free of charge, from the Film Library, Alberta
Agriculture, 7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

Anyone who would like more information on this film or on the others in the
series should contact Doug Pettit, who is head of the broadcast media branch. His telephone
number is 427-2127.

-30-

October 31, 1963

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1 1

NEGOTIATING SURFACE RIGHTS

The purpose of a publication entitled "Negotiating Surface Rights", which is
available from Alberta Agriculture, is to help landowners and the occupants of land to nego-
tiate a private agreement with an oil or gas company or an independent land agent as well as
to understand the process that is involved in appearing before the Surface Rights Board.

Ownership of land does not mean that a landowner has exclusive control over his
property. Through special acts, governments may permit others to acquire the use of part
of an individual's land on the assumption that it's in the interest of the general public.

Under common law a mineral owner has the right to enter upon the land that is
held by a surface owner to work and remove the minerals. The surface owner's certificate of
title is expressly made subject to the right of the mineral owner. Pipelines and powerlines
are allowed to be constructed on an individual's land under statutory provisions made under
the direction of government. The Surface Rights Act comes into effect when the surface

owner or occupant of the land and the company concerned are unable, or unwilling, to
reach a private agreement regarding the use of the land.

"Negotiating Surface Rights" includes a section on negotiating a surface lease,
which covers private negotiations, top soil reclamation and surface leases. Another section
deals with determining compensation, and it covers entry fees, the value of interest taken,
general disturbances, the loss of the use of the land and adverse effects. A third section

- (cont'd) -

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

/dlborra

- 2 -

Negotiating Surface Rights (cont'd)

covers rental and a fourth discusses negotiating right-of-way agreements. It covers additional
pipelines, liability clauses, guarantor's rights, topsoil conservation, above surface structures,
damages and right of entry through the Surface Rights Act.

Copies of "Negotiating Surface Rights" can be obtained from district agricul-
turists or by writing to the Publications Office, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 1 13 Street,
Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30-

October 31, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GUIDE TO FARM ACCOUNTING AND MANAGEMENT TERMS

Today's farmers and ranchers require the facts, figures and techniques of modern
management to make effective decisions. Management terms and accounting terms are the
language of business, and understanding and using this language can be of considerable
importance to a farm manager.

Because the accounting and farm management vocabulary consists of many words
which can either have other meanings in ordinary usage or are not used at all in day-to-day
communications, Alberta Agriculture's farm business management branch has compiled a
guide to terms that are commonly used in farm management. It is called a "Guide to Farm
Accounting and Management Terms".

To broaden the narrower field of farm accounting, an attempt has been made in
the guide to include expressions that are used in a wide range of farm management related
publications, financial reports the commodity trade, farm periodicals and newspapers. An
appendix lists and explains the most commonly used computer vocabulary.

The "Guide to Farm Accounting and Management Terms" should be particularly
useful to people who are involved in agriculture, but who do not necessarily know off-hand
what "Amended Quota Areas" are, what "complementarity" means in farm business man-
agement or what a computer salesman means when he claims his computer has 64 K RAM
memory.

"Farm Accounting and Management Terms", (Agdex 818-19) can be obtained
from Alberta Agriculture's district offices, The Farm Business Management Branch, Box
2000, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1 PO or by writing to the Publications Office, Alberta Agriculture,
J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone:(403)427-2121

October 31, 1933

CGR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LOANS OFFICERS APPOINTED TO FORT VERMILION,
PEACE RIVER AND GRANDE PRAIRIE

Frank Blush, the Alberta Agricultural Development Corporation's (AADC)
region?! manager for the Peace region, has announced the appointments of William J. Hart,
Bruce Gordon and Larry Lindquist to the position of loans officer at Fort Vermilion, Peace
Rivs*" and Grande Prairie respectively.
Bill Hart

Mr. Hart was born in Edmonton and grew up in St. Albert. He graduated from
the University of Albert? with a B.Comm. in 1972. He has gained a great deal of experience
during the past 12 years in the areas of agricultural lending, management and business enter-
prise. He was employed by the Toronto Dominion Bank for approximately 10 years and his
last ocsition was that of branch manager in Smoky Lake.

Mr. Hart's previous experience will be of great assistance in the development of
agriculture in the Fort Vermilion area.

He is married, has three children and will be making his home in Fort Vermilion.
Bruce Gordon

Bruce Gordon grew up on a farm in the Trochu district and graduated from the
University of Alberta with a B.Sc. (agriculture) in 1979, having specialized in agricultural
economics. Since leaving university he has acquired a considerable amount of experience in
the farm lending, appraisal and consulting fields. In addition to having been employed by
the Farm Credit Corporation for several years, he worked for McKinnon, Allen and Assoc-
iates Ltd.

- (cont'd) -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Loans Officers Appointed To Fort Vermilion, Peace River And Grande Prairie (cont'd)

Mr. Gordon's extensive experience wi I be a valuable asset to AADC's lending

staff.

He is single and will make his home in Peace River.
Larry Lindquist

Mr. Lindquist grew up on a farm in the Hythe area and graduated from the
University of Alberta with a B.Sc. (agriculture) in 1973, having specialized in agricultural
economics.

After graduating from university, he joined the Farm Credit Corporation where he
worked as a loans officer in the Wetaskiwin and Evansburg districts for a total of five years.

Mr. Lindquist returned to Hythe in 1978 to take over the family farm, and this
practical experience, combined with his experience in farm lending, appraising and consult-
ing, will make him a valuable addition to AADC's lending staff in Grande Prairie.

Mr. Lindquist is married, has three children and will continue to live at Hythe.

- 30 -

October 31, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADC LOANS OFFICER APPOINTED TO RED DEER

Ken Friesen, regional manager for the Alberta Agricultural Devel-
opment Corporation (AADC) in Red Deer, has announced the appointment of
Clinton L. Rothrock to the position of loans officer in Red Deer.

Mr. Rothrock was born and raised on a farm in Illinois, U.S.A., and
graduated from the University of Alberta with a B.Sc. (agriculture) in 1978. He
worked for AADC in Grande Prairie for two years prior to working for CUSO for
two years.

Mr. Rothrock, his wife and children will be moving to Red Deer.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Nutritive Processing Pact Extended 1

Sugar Beet Producers Vote To Establish A Marketing Board 3

Alberta's 1983 Crop 4

World Wheat Price And Situation Outlook 5

Feed Grain Price And Situation Outlook 7

Oilseed Price And Situation Outlook 8

Canada's Strict Pesticide Registration Process 9

Fababeans In Swine Rations 11

1983 Sheep Symposium 13

Soil And Water Management Conference 15

Soil Testing Tips 16

Southern Alberta Beekeepers Crying The Blues! 18

ADC Loans Officer Appointed To Stettler 19

District Home Economist Appointed 20

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NUTRITIVE PROCESSING PACT EXTENDED

There is good news for rural Alberta in a joint announcement that has been made
by the Canadian and Alberta governments.

Senator H.A. (Bud) Olson, leader of the government in the Senate, on behalf of
the Honorable Ed Lumley, federal minister of industry, trade and commerce and regional
economic expansion (ITC/DREE), and the Honorable Jim Horsman, Alberta's minister of
federal and intergovernmental Affairs, announced the signing of a one-year extension of the
Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance Agreement.

Nutritive processors in rural Alberta now have until September 30, 1984 to apply
for financial assistance under the agreement.

The extension of the nutritive processing assistance agreement will provide
approximately $10 million worth of financial assistance to encourage the building, expansion
or modernization of operations in rural areas that process nutritive products.

When signing the extension, both ministers underlined the cooperative nature of
the agreement and the success it has enjoyed since it was established in 1 975.

"Because of nutritive processing assistance, many more businesses are processing
locally produced materials and, as a result, many fine Alberta agricultural products have dis-
placed goods formerly shipped in from other parts of Canada or imported," Senator Olson
said. "Some of the firms have also been successful in exporting Alberta products to inter-
national markets."

The Senator added that the nutritive agreement fully complements ITC/DREE's
new industrial and regional development program (IRDP).

Mr. Horsman noted the importance of the nutritive processing assistance agree-
ment to rural Alberta. "By encouraging the local processing of agricultural products in rural

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Nutritive Processing Pact Extended (cont'd)

Alberta," he said, "the agreement tends to reinforce the linkage between the farmer and the
processor. This linkage has helped to strengthen and diversify the economy of the entire
province." He also said that it is important that this type of activity continue in keeping with
Alberta's policy of economic diversification and balanced growth.

LeRoy Fjordbotten, Alberta's minister of agriculture, is pleased with the one-year

extension. He says "Value-added processing is important to Alberta's agricultural economy
and provides a local market for producer products. Everyone, from the farmer to the con-
sumer, benefits from this program."

Since 1975 almost $23 million in federal-provincial grants have been provided
under the nutritive processing agreement to meat packers, feedmills, bakeries, dairy plants
and a variety of other businesses in rural Alberta They have been applied to projects with
a total value of more than $120 million and have been instrumental in creating some 1,580
jobs.

The nutritive processing assistance agreement is jointly administered by the
governments of Canada and Alberta and all funding is shared equally by the two govern-
ments.

For further information contact Dr. Jim Wiebe at 427-4287.

- 30-

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SUGAR BEET PRODUCERS VOTE TO ESTABLISH
A MARKETING BOARD

Alberta's sugar beet producers have voted in favor of establishing an
Alberta Sugar Beet Growers' Marketing Board.

The general manager of the Alberta Agricultural Products Marketing
Council, Tom Sydness, reports that 68.3 per cent of the 489 eligible registered
sugar beet producers voted for the plan to establish a marketing board.

Presented by the Alberta Sugar Beet Growers' Association, the plan will
see the marketing board formalize negotiations, between the processor and the
producers, that are aimed at adopting or settling matters regarding producer returns
and terms and conditions and forms of contracts related to the marketing of sugar
beets. The board will also establish a system of quotas for marketing sugar beets.

Mr. Sydness says the Agricultural Products Marketing Council will
appoint 1 1 sugar beet producers to serve as a provisional board of directors. They
will be responsible for guiding the Alberta Sugar Beet Growers' Marketing Board
through its formative stages until an elected board of directors takes office.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDATE RELEASE

ALBERTA'S 1983 CROP

The overall quality of Alberta's 1983 crop is reported to be better than
that of last year, despite the light bushel weights that have resulted from last

August's exceptionally hot weather.

Marilyn Johnson of Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch says most
grade reductions can be attributed to unfavorable harvesting weather rather than to
frost damage. She points out that the frosts were not severe enough to signifi-
cantly affect either grades or yields.

The yields of Alberta's six main grain crops were as follows. The un-
bracketed figures express kilograms per acre while those in brackets represent the
five-year weighted average, also expressed in kilograms per acre.

All wheat 900 (830); oats 910 (905); barley 1010 (1035); canola 440
(475); flaxseed 520 (470); and all rye 840 (825). Ms. Johnson says this year's
wheat production, at an estimated 6.9 million tonnes, has set a new record, and
that it was grown on 7,700,000 acres. This was the largest wheat acreage in the
province since 1949.

Ms. Johnson also says that soil moisture reserves have been depleted in
the central and southern regions of Alberta as well as in the western districts of the
northwest region. However, good to excellent moisture reserves have been repor-
ted in the remainder of the province.

- 30 -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

3hone: (403) 427-21 21

Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983 !
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WORLD WHEAT PRICE AND SITUATION OUTLOOK

World wheat prices are expected to remain generally weak during the remainder
of the 1983-84 crop year.

Alberta Agriculture's grain marketing economist, Les Lyster, says the world wheat
market is expected to show minor seasonal strength until mid-winter after which prices are
expected to decline modestly into the summer of 1984. He also says that the outlook for
durum is brighter than that for spring wheats. Durum p ices have strengthened during the
past few months because of a reduction in world durum production, especially in North
America.

The past three years have seen successive record world wheat crops, and yields in
the last two years have been above average in several of the main wheat producing countries.
However, Mr. Lyster says the wheat acreage in a number of countries is likely to decline next
year because of favorable prices for oilseeds and feed gra ns relative to wheat prices. Hence,
the chances of lower world wheat production in 1984-85 are good, despite the potential for
an increase in U.S. production because of a less effective wheat acreage control program.

Since world wheat usage is likely to increase modestly in the 1984-85 crop year,
world carryover stocks will probably start to decline from their high levels of the past two
years. Also, a weaker American dollar against other major world currencies would be a posi-
tive development in the long run for North American wheat prices. Mr. Lyster says although
the outlook for wheat prices is not bright in the short term, he expects prices to begin to im-
prove in 1984-85.

The United States Department of Agriculture currently estimates 1983-84 world
wheat production at a record 484 million tonnes, up by one per cent from the 1982-83 level.
And it estimates 1983-84 world wheat usage at 477 million tonnes , which would be 2 per
cent above the 1982-83 level.

(cont'd)

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

none: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

World Wheat Price And Situation Outlook (cont'd)

Mr. Lyster says that 1983-84 world wheat carryover stocks are estimated to be a
burdensom 105 million tonnes or 7 million tonnes higher +han they were in 1982-83. And
he points out that this would be the largest world wheat carryover since 1968-69!

Total Canadian 1983-84 wheat supplies are estimated at 36.55 million tonnes,
unchanged from the 1982-83 level. According to Mr. Lyster, 1983-84 Canadian wheat
exports, including wheat products, are currently expected to be around 20.5 million tonnes
or 5 per cent below their record 1982-83 level. Canada's wheat carryover stocks on July 31 ,
1984 are expected to be around 10.8 million tonnes, which would be 0.8 million tonnes
higher than they were in July of this year.

Alberta's 1983 wheat crop is currently estimated at a record 6.7 million tonnes,
up by 11 per cent from 1982. At 7.7 million acres, the province's wheat acreage was 1 2 per
cent larger than it was in 1982 and the largest it has been since 1949! Alberta's average
wheat yield is estimated at 32 bushels per acre, this year, which would be 0.4 bushels per
acre lower than it was in 1982.

The above article is based on information that was available in October, 1983.

- 30 -

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEED GRAIN PRICE AND SITUATION OUTLOOK

Alberta country elevator bids for feed barley are expected to be in the $'■ 15 to
$120 per tonne range by mid-winter. Barley prices paid by feed mills and feedlots will pro-
bably be between $120 and $125 per tonne.

Les Lyster, grain marketing economist with Alberta Agriculture, says feed grain
prices in the present crop year will average well above their depressed 1982-83 levels because
of tight Canadian and world feed grain supply/demand balances. And he expects barley
prices to remain firm into next summer at which time they could come under pressure again
if growing conditions are favorable because the feed grain acreage in Canada and elsewhere is
expected to increase in 1984.

The sharp increase in Canadian barley export prices that has occurred since mid-
summer is the result of a large decline in the American corn crop and smaller European Econ-
omic Community (EEC) and Canadian barley crops, Mr. Lyster says. The decline in EEC
barley production has also resulted in a greater demand for Canadian malting barley. Cana-
dian barley exports, including barley-products, are expected to reach a record level of around
6.1 million tonnes in the current crop year, which would be 7 per cent higher than they were
in the 1982-83 crop year.

Canada's 1983 barley crop is estimated at 10.51 million tonnes, representing a 25
per cent drop compared with the record 1982 crop. Total Canadian barley supplies are esti-
mated at 15.72 million tonnes, which is 15 per cent below the record 1982-83, supplies, and
carryover stocks on July 1 , 1984 will be tight at around 2.5 million tonnes.

Trie above article is based on information that was available in October. 1983.

- 30 -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OILSEED PRICE AND SITUATION OUTLOOK

Some near-term softness is expected in the oilseed market, but prices should again
reach their September 1983 highs by March-April 1984. However, they are expected to
decline during the summer unless adverse weather threatens the size of the upcoming crop.

Les Lyster, Alberta Agriculture's grain marketing economist, reports that rapeseed

futures increased by $150 per tonne between late June and mid-September, and that they
have since declined by about $40 per tonne basis the nearby future. The basis levels, which
widened over the summer, have narrowed slightly. These levels are now mainly in the $45 to
$55 per tonne range, but Mr Lyster expects them to have narrowed to between $30 and $40

per tonne by next spring in response to tight carryover stocks.

Canada's 1983 canola crop is estimated at 2.676 million tonnes or 19 per cent
larger than the 1982 crop. However, total 1983-84 canola supplies are estimated to be 3.154
million tonnes or only 7.3 per cent above 1982-83 supplies. Carryover stocks on July 31,
1984 will be extremely tight at about 450,000 tonnes.

Mr. Lyster says the United States Department of Agriculture's October estimate
of this year's soybean crop was 1.517 billion bushels, 32 per cent below the 1982 crop.
Hence, total 1983-84 soybean supplies are estimated at 1.904 billion bushels or 24 per cent
below the 1982-83 level, and the smallest crop since 1977-78.

"Given the substantial reduction in soybean supplies", says Mr. Lyster, "severe
price rationing must occur during the present crop year. Carryover stocks on September 1,
1984 are projected to be extremely tight at 120 million bushels or about a third of the
September 1, 1983 level."

The above article is based on information that was available in October, 1983.

-30-

/dlbcrfa

AGRICULTURE

(403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CANADA'S STRICT PESTICIDE REGISTRATION PROCESS

The Canadian registration process for screening pesticides for safety before they
are allowed to be used is stricter than that of all the other countries ir. the Western world,
including the United States, Britain, France, Germany and Australia. However, this does not
mean that it is perfect.

Alberta Agriculture's pesticide issues coordinator, Dr. Moe Hussain, points out
that there is no such thing as a perfect system and that the Canadian registration process is no
exception. However, he also points out that the rare breakdowns in ccmmunication that can
occur between Agriculture Canada and one of the provinces, as in the case of the fungicide
Du-ter, shouid not be used to cast doubt on the whole process.

Du-ter was the subject of a recent TV program, called W-5, which indicated that
it was used in Eastern Canada long after it had been removed by Agriculture Canada from the
list of registered pesticides. It had been granted a temporary registration for a one-year trial
in 1981 for use against early and late blight diseases in potatoes. At the end of that year its
temporary registration was withdrawn, but one of the Eastern provinces was apparently not
informed. As a result Du-ter continued to appear in that province's production publications
and to be used for at least a year and-a-half after its temporary registration had expired.
Du-ter was not recommended for use in Western Canada because it had never undergone any
efficacy trials in this part of the country, and the manufacturer did not offer the product for
sale here.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Canada's Strict Pesticide Registration Process (cont'd)

Dr. Hussain says, farmers and pesticide manufacturers are sometimes irate because
Canada's strict pesticide screening process periodically removes pesticides that are designed
to combat hard-to-control pests. And what makes the situation even worse is that pesticides,
such as Du-ter, that are not registered for use in Canada may end up being used in countries
which have less strict regulations. The irony is that there is nothing to prevent food products
which have been treated with pesticides that are not allowed to be used in Canada from being
imported and eaten by Canadians.

-30-

1 1

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FABABEANS IN SWINE RATIONS

Satisfactory levels have been established for the use of fababeans in barley-type
swine rations and for their use in combination with other protein supplements like canola
meal and soymeal. The levels were established by research done by Dr. Frank Aherne of the
University of Alberta.

Sam Jaikaran, monogastric nutritionist with Alberta Agriculture, says the nutrit-
ive quality of fababeans is excellent for swine, but that a limitation on their use in swine
rations is necessary to maintain normal growth rates. The limitation is required because of
the presence of some anti-nutritive factors in the beans.

Mr. Jaikaran points out that fababeans contain about 25 per cent protein and
that they have an excellent amino acid profile. He also says that grinding is the only process-
ing that is necessary. Heating the beans prior to feeding them will not improve their nutritive
properties, he notes.

Because fababeans contain tannins which cause a bitter taste, there could be palat-
ability problems if the beans make up more than 20 per cent of swine rations. Also, the
methionine content of fababeans is borderline for pigs, but will be adequate if the beans
make up only 20 per cent or less of the ration. A deficiency of lysine is not usually a prob-
lem in swine rations that contain fababeans.

- (cont'd) -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Fababeans In Swine Rations (cont'd)

The maximum recommended levels of fababeans in pig rations are as follows:-

Starter Feeds
Grower feeds
Finisher feeds
All Sows

5 per cent
15 per cent
20 per cent
10 per cent

Additional protein from other sources will be required in the starter, grower and
sow rations, Mr. Jaikaran says.

Further information on formulating and/or feeding fababeans in swine rations can
be obtained from Sam Jaikaran, Alberta Agriculture, O.S. Longman Building, 6909-116
Street, tdmonton, Alberta, T6H 4P2 (Telephone: 436-9150).

-30-

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1983 SHEEP SYMPOSIUM

Russ Beattie of Rexbury, Idaho, U.S.A. is presently producing a fantastic 3.39
lambs per ewe per year, and he will be telling about his operation at this year's sheep sympo-
sium, scheduled to take place at the Banff Centre in Banff from December 1 to 3.

Other out-of-province speakers will include Dr. Malcolm Tait from the University
of British Columbia who is a well known sheep nutritionist; Dr. Norman Gates of Pullman,
Washington, who is a leader in sheep veterinary medicine; and Art Christensen who runs a
large flock of range sheep near Dillon, Montana.

This year's plenary session topics will include: "Potentials of an Extensive Sheep
Enterprise"; Intensive Management for Profits"; "Nutrition for Reproduction and Gain";
"All You Want to Know about Sheep Health and More"; "The Function and Responsibilities
of Marketing Boards"; and "Marketing Boards - A Producer's View".

The following topics will be covered in the choice of a session part of the pro-
gram: "Keeping Feed Costs Down", "Pasture Supplementation with Annuals"; "How to Run
a Successful Feedlot", "Increasing Lamb Production"; "New Developments in Ewe and Ram
Reproduction"; "Condition Scoring and Its Impact on Profit"; "Internal Parasites in Alberta
Sheep"; "New Methods of External Parasite Control"; "Brucella Ovis"; and "Footrot — An
Insidious Disease".

A workshop for people interested in wool and sheepskin crafts will be offered in
conjunction with the symposium on December 2 and 3. It will be given by Linda MacPhee of
Edmonton who is well known for the wool and sheepskin craft workshops that she gives
throughout Alberta. Its cost will be covered by the symposium fee except for the cost of any
materials that are purchased at the workshop.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

1983 Sheep Symposium (cont'd)

The cost of the symposium, which includes three meals a day and the banquet, is
only $32 per person per day. The total cost of the three-day event for those who have a
single room at the Banff Centre will be $65 per person per day. For those who have a double
room it will be $53 per person per day. The cost of staying at the Siding 29 Lodge will be
$40 per night (double occupancy) plus $32 per day for the symposium, meals and banquet.

Since the Alberta Sheep Symposium is a very popular event — 250 people
attended the last one — anyone who plans to attend this year is advised to register early by
sending a $20 cheque, made payable to the Banff Centre, to John Kriapp, Bag Service No.1,
Airdrie, Alberta, TOM OBO (Telephone: 948-5101 ). Information on The symposium and on
the MacPhee workshop can also be obtained from Mr. Knapp or from Don Scheer, Alberta
Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000-1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6 (Tele-
phone: 427-5077).

- 30 -

RELEASE

SOIL AND WATER MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE

"Soil Erosion arid Degradation" is the theme of the second annual Soil and Water
Management Conference, which will be held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan from November 29
to December 1 .

The conference is being hosted and sponsored by the Saskatchewan government

and will cover the following topics.

. The Extent of the Soil Degradation Problem.

. Conservation and Reclamation Practices in Theory and Practice.

. The Economics of Conservation and Policy Decisions at Various Levels
of Government.

. Soil Conservation Research Needs

. Soil Conservation Policies for the Future.

Last year's conference, which was hosted and sponsored by Alberta, dealt with

soil salinity.

The soil and water management conferences were started as a result of a meeting
of the four Western premiers in 1981. They felt that the efficient management of soil and
water in Western Canada was one of the areas that needed immediate attention, and they
agreed that the conferences should be held annually and rotated among the four Western
provinces.

The premiers also agreed that the purpose of the conferences should be to pro-
mote a complete exchange of relevant research and other information so that each of the
provinces would be better able to manage its soil and water resources efficiently and effec-
tively.

The head of Alberta Agriculture's soil and water conservation section, John
Hermans, says farmers and agrologists are becoming increasingly aware of the need to manage
and conserve land resources, particularly as the amount of new land for opening up is becom-
ing smaller and smaller.

^Iberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE

-30 -

lone: (403)427-2121

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOIL TESTING TIPS
Are you planning to take soil samples this fall?

The head of the Alberta Agricultural Soil and Feed Testing Laboratory in Edmon-
ton , Don Laverty, says a soil analysis will show whether you need to use more fertilizer to
obtain optimum crop production and it will also show whether you are lowering your net
crop returns by using too much fertilizer.

He says careful soil sampling is the key to obtaining reliable test results. A sampl-
ing guide and the required tools can be obtained from any district agriculturist. If somebody
else is going to do the sampling, be sure to give him exact instructions as to how you want the
samples taken and where you want them taken from, Mr. Laverty says. Separate samples
should be taken from each field and from all problem growth areas.

A soil test report should state whether the content of the nutrients in the soil is
low, medium or high, and you should compare the results obtained from each field with
those of the other fields as well as with those in previous test reports. You should also note
the higher soil nitrogen levels that have resulted from such management practices as summer-
fallowing and legume plowdown versus stubble. And note the variations in nitrogen, sulphur,
pH and conductivity test levels that are obtained at different soil testing depths. Mr. Laverty
says this information is one of the greatest advantages derived from taking deep samples in
some fields each year.

Next compare your soil test results with the fertilizer recommendations on the
report. If the report shows a nutrient to be low, that nutrient should be recommended in the
report. However, if the amount of a nutrient is stated to be medium or high, little or no add-
itional nutrient should be required. Nutrients are sometimes recommended as a form of

- (cont'd)

vdlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Soil Testing Tips (cont'd )

insurance against the possibility of limiting crop production without them. However, as
Mr. Laverty points out, this type of insurance can be expensive.

He also advises farmers to ask agencies that recommend the use of a fertilizer for
the yield goal they used as a basis for their recommendations. Yield goals may be identified
as top yields, average yields or in terms of bushels per acre or tonnes per hectare. A yield
goal should be assessed against actual yields that are generally obtained in the area and on
your farm. In other words, you should make sure that the goal is realistic for your specific
situation. Mr. Laverty points out that nutrient requirements for top yield goals are usually
considerably higher than those for average yield goals.

Other things you can do to check the nutrient recommendations on a soil test
report from the point of view of your specific location, cropping program and available
capital are:

. Discuss them with your district agriculturist.

. Compare them with those recommended in the Alberta Fertilizer
Guide.

. Compare them with those recommended, or previously recommended,
by the Alberta Agricultural Soil and Feed Testing Laboratory in
Edmonton.

. Grow test strips in your fields using the standard nutrient rates recom-
mended for your area and the recommended rates in your soil testing
report.

Mr. Laverty says that because fertilizers are expensive, it is very important to
make sure that their use more than covers their cost. If nutrients are applied that do not
substantially increase crop yields, you will be reducing your overall profit.

- 30 -

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOUTHERN ALBERTA BEEKEEPERS CRYING THE BLUES!

Although conditions were favorable for bees in southern Alberta last
spring, and beekeepers were looking forward to a good honey crop, 1983 has
turned out to be a disastrous year for them.

According to Dr. Ulf Soehngen, entomologist at the Alberta Horticul-
tural Research Center in Brooks, a mid-season drought combined with an extended
period of unusually high temperatures drastically reduced the availability of nectar.
This meant that many colonies were able to collect little more than enough nectar
to maintain their populations.

Dr. Soehngen says a few beekeepers did harvest a near normal honey
crop, but that colony averages of as low as 13.6 kg (30 pounds) were reported from
areas where the usual average was around 55.5 kg.

He points out that a reduction in the wholesale price paid for honey
this year has added to the problems of southern Alberta beekeepers who have re-
ported receiving 8.8c to 13.2c less per kg (4 c to 6 c per pound) than they re-
ceived last year. The reasons cited for this price reduction included a good honey
crop in the northern part of the province and a fair amount of honey being avail-
able on the world market.

-30-

ydlloerra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADC LOANS OFFICER APPOINTED TO STETTLER

Ken Friesen, regional manager for the Alberta Agricultural Devel-
opment Corporation (AADC) in Red Deer, has announced the appointment of
W. Hume Henley to the position of loans officer in Stettler.

Mr. Henley was born and raised on a farm at Sedley, Saskatchewan, and
he obtained his B.Sc. (agriculture) from the University of Saskatchewan.
He farmed near Sedley for a number of years prior to joining the Saskatchewan
Land Bank Commission, where he worked as a counsellor for 10 years.

Mr. Henley, his wife and three children will be moving to Stettler.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

November 7, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DISTRICT HOME ECONOMIST APPOINTED TO INNISFAIL

The head of Alberta Agriculture's home economics branch, Shirley
Myers, has announced the appointment of Karen Goad to the position of district
home economist at Innisfail.

Ms. Goad was born and raised in a small town in the Ottawa Valley
region of Ontario. She attended the University of Western Ontario and graduated
in 1977 with a B.Sc. (H.EC), having majored in human nutrition.

After graduation she spent three years in a variety of consumer educa-
tion/advocate positions in Yellowknife, N.W.T. She has spent the last two and-a-
half years as Alberta Agriculture's district home economist in Grande Prairie.

- 30 -

lone: (403)427-2121

/dlborra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Canadians
84

November 14, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

ADC Second Quarter Report 1

Cattle Price Outlook 5

Hog Price Outlook 7

Lamb Price Outlook 9

Soil Erosion Research 10

Outstanding Year For Alberta Lamb Testing Station 11

Feeder Cattle - What Can You Pay? 13

A New Method For Controlling Warble Grubs 15

Grain Marketing Seminar 16

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

November 14, 1983

]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADC SECOND QUARTER REPORT

The Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) reported a slight
increase over last year in their guaranteed lending programs during the
first half of the 1983-84 fiscal year.

Direct farm lending activity has declined during the same period,
allowing loans staff to devote more time for financial counselling and
supervision of existing accounts.

Agribusiness lending shows a minimal increase over the same
period last year.

Total incentives earned by Alberta farmers under ADC loan programs
increased over 1982.

the Alberta Farm Development Loans (AFDL) program during the first six
months compared with 2,937 loans, totalling $41.6 million, in the first
six months of last year. Specific guarantees to farmers totalled 31
loans for $1.7 million compared with 31 loans for $2.1 million in the
same period last year. Loan guarantee programs assist primary producers
to develop or maintain viable farms by guaranteeing loans made by
conventional lenders at favourable interest rates.

Slight Rise in Guaranteed Farm Lending

There were 3,581 loans, totalling $51.8 million, granted under

Direct Farm Lending Down

Direct farm lending amounted to 570 loans for $72 million,

-(cont 'd)-

Phone:(403)427-2121

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

ADC Second Quarter Report (cont'd)

compared to 869 loans for $121 million in the first half of last year.
The decrease can be attributed to the general economic conditions. There
were 524 beginning farmer loans for $68 million in the current year,
down from 666 loans for $96 million last year. ADC encourages beginning
farmers to phase into farming. Of the 524 beginning farmer borrowers ,
297 elected to take advantage of the phase-in option. The average
Stage I loan was $109,000. This compares to an average loan of $184,500
for those who did not select the. staged option program. Under the staged
option program, a Stage I loan can be any amount up to $160,000. Other
direct farm loans for the six months totalled 46 for $4 million compared
with 203 for $24.8 million during the same period last year.

Agribusiness Shows Minimal Increase
Agribusiness lending activity during the first half of the 1983-84
fiscal year involved eight direct loans for $13 million, and 12
guaranteed loans for $6 million. These figures compare with 26 loans
for $7 million and 10 guaranteed loans for $14.8 million a year ago.
In addition, there were 1] operating loan extensions granted for $9.7
million this year compared with 16 for only $2.8 million in the first
half of 1982-83. During the second quarter of this year, the special
program involving a preferential interest rate for rural gas co-ops was
terminated. During the life of the program 37 loans totalling $6.2

-(cont 'd)~

-3-

ADC Second Quarter Report (cont'd)
million were approved.

Incentives Increase
Total incentives earned by Alberta farmers under ADC loan programs
rose from $11 million during the first six months of 1982 to $15.8
million during the first half of this fiscal year. Incentives are earned
through complying with all the guidelines of the beginning farmer loan
program and the production incentive programs.

Management Highlights
J. Harold Hanna, chairman and managing director of ADC, reported
a decrease of approximately one working week in the turn-around time
required to process new direct loan applications.

Mr. Hanna indicated an improved electronic data processing system
has been introduced at the corporation's head office in Camrose. It
will enable ADC staff to handle client loan accounts on a more timely
basis. The new system will also provide additional information to
borrowers on their loan transactions and will lead to improved reporting
procedures .

ADC is a Crown corporation of Alberta. It was established to
assist the provincial agricultural industry by serving as a supplementary
lender for those potential farmers and agribusinessmen who have the

-(cont 'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-A-

ADC Second Quarter Report (cont'd)

ability and knowledge to own and operate their own business, but do not
have the capital or equity to acquire financing from other conventional
lenders. ADC's capital funding is provided by the sale of debentures
to the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust fund.

-30-

November 14, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CATTLE PRICE OUTLOOK

Prices for A1 and A2 steers in Calgary are expected to be in the $69 to $72 per
hundredweight range for the fourth quarter of this year with variations outside this range
occurring from time to time. Prices are expected to have moved up into the mid-$70 range
by the end of the first quarter of 1984 and to strengthen further in the second quarter.

However, according to Alberta Agriculture's livestock economist, Gordon Herring-
ton, short-keep feeder prices are expected to be subject to further price fluctuations in the
fourth quarter of this year. But feeder calf prices are not expected to demonstrate any signi-
ficant price weakness during this period, and out-of-province demand should increase in early
1984, which would generate some price strength. Mr. Herrington says the movement of
calves out of the province during this fall and winter is not expected to be as heavy as it
was during the same period in 1982-83.

Early fourth quarter feeder cattle and calf prices and feed costs, when equated to
expected fat cattle prices into the early part of 1984, suggest that profit margins are not
attractive to out-of-province feedlot operators in the short-term and that demand will only
strengthen when profit expectations improve. This situation will not occur before the first
quarter of 1984, Mr. Herrington says.

(cont'd) -

'none: (403) 427-21 21

Ahexio

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Cattle Price Outlook (cont'd)

However, plentiful supplies of forage and feed grain in Alberta will generate local
buyer interest, and, providing the numbers of cattle and calves offered for sale during the
fourth quarter are not excessive, early fourth quarter price levels could be maintained for
light weight animals and price weakness on the heavier ones could be limited. But, as Mr.Herr-
ington points out, local demand cannot be expected to support prices if the number of
animals being offered for sale is large. In this respect, he thinks that the probability of some
price weakness during the fourth quarter of this year is high.

Slaughter cow prices are expected to drop sharply during the fourth quarter and

to remain depressed into the new /ear as low grade beef export opportunities diminish.

American domestic cow slaughter increases expected early in 1984 will keep prices down and

hinder the movement of Alberta cows into U.S. markets.

The above article Is based on information that was available in October, 1983.

- 30 -

November 14, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOG PRICE OUTLOOK

In view of the large supply of hogs that is expected in both Canada and the
United States during the remainder of 1983 and the early part of 1984, price expectations for
the fourth quarter of this year and the first quarter of next are not optimistic.

Gordon Herrington, livestock economist with Alberta Agriculture, expects 100
index hog prices in Canada to briefly fall below the $60 per hundredweight level in the fourth
quarter and to recover moderately in the first quarter of 1984. He believes that they will
move into the low $60 per hundredweight range during the first quarter of next year and
remain relatively stable until late in the second quarter when they could strengthen.

Mr. Herrington says the third quarter output level of pigs in all the provinces
suggests that the farrowing intentions indicated in Statistics Canada's July 1 inventory report
were very conservative and that they do not reflect the probable output level for the remain-
der of 1983 or for the first part of 1984. He points out that the large increases in feed prices
and the sharply lower hog prices throughout North America in September and during the first
part of October could result in an increase in the number of sows slaughtered. "This situa-
tion" he says, "indicates a more moderate increase in output than was previously expected.
However, its effect will not be felt until well into 1984. In the meantime, the fourth quarter
1983 and the first quarter 1 984 production levels are expected to increase still more."

(cont'd)

Phone:(403)427-2121

Liberia

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Hog Price Outlook (cont'd)

The United States Department of Agriculture September 1 hogs and pigs report
also indicates a continued high level of output for the remainder of 1983 and the early part
of 1984. However, a more moderate level in farrowing intentions will eventually result in a
slackening in output. In fact, recent large price changes for feed and market hogs suggest that
U.S. farrowing intentions may be substantially reduced in the near future as feeding margins,
which have been negative for sometime, become wider and financial losses become more
severe.

The above article is based on information that was available in October, 1983.

- 30 -

November 14, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LAMB PRICE OUTLOOK

Alberta lamb prices are expected to continue their gradual upward
trend during the remainder of 1983 and the early part of 1984.

Deb Thorsen, marketing economist with Alberta Agriculture, believes
that Alberta lamb prices will be in the mid-$60 per hundredweight range by Dec-
ember, and that they will increase to the mid-$70 range during the first quarter of
1984 in response to a stronger demand and a reduction in supplies prior to the new
lamb crop.

Ms. Thorsen says that price lows, which normally occur during the
fourth quarter of the year, came several months early this year because of an un-
usual production pattern. Early lambing and a mild winter resulted in the main
lamb crop in Alberta, and in the other provinces, reaching the market in June
instead of the end of August.

This heavy run on the market in the third quarter caught both the
packers and retailers off guard with the result that prices had dropped dramatically
by the end of June. In August Alberta lamb prices were between $55 and $57 per
hundredweight. However, by September supplies had started to level off, and by
the end of that month, prices had climbed to between $60 and $62 per hundred-
weight.

In 1982 lamb prices were at their lowest in October and they did not
start to pick up until December.

The above article is based on information that was available in October. 1 983.

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

November 14, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SOIL EROSION RESEARCH

Most of the soil loss that occurs each year from water erosion occurs during the
spring runoff, and the highest loss occurs on fallowed land.

These facts have been established in a project, being funded under Alberta Agri-
culture's Farming for the Future Program, and being carried out in the Peace River region by
Dave Chanasyk of the University of Alberta's Department of Soil Science.

Established in 1980, the plots are located near Berwyn and La Glace and were de-
signed to study the management practices involved in growing fescue and in a fallow-canola-
barley rotation. There are four plots, measuring 5m wide and 75 m long, at each location.

The conclusion that most soil erosion from water occurs on summerfallow land
in the spring was reached after the runoff water and sediment had been collected on a year-
round basis. Although a few more years of data will be necessary to find out the actual
amount of soil lost at various times of the year, it has been established that most of the water
runoff and soil loss in these plots occurs in the spring when the snow is melting. The lowest
loss occurred on the fescue plots and the highest on the fallow plots.

John Hermans, head of the soil and water conservation section of Alberta Agricul-
ture conservation and development branch, says the above project certainly endorses the rec-
ommended practice of leaving stubble fields with a good crop residue and in a rough condi-
tion during the winter. He also points out that, because most of the soil loss from water
erosion occurs on summerfallow, crops like legumes or other cereal crops should be con-
sidered in place of summerfallow.

^Ibcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone: (403)427-2121

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OUTSTANDING YEAR FOR ALBERTA LAMB TESTING STATION

Gordon Kure of Innisfail, holding his record-gaining Suffolk ram lamb ( 0. 687 kg/day)
and purchaser Pat DeRosemond ofCarstairs.

The Alberta Ram Testing Station at Olds College, Olds, has had an outstanding
year from the point of view of average daily gains.

The top indexing ram lamb, submitted for test by Gordon Kure of Spruce View,
had an average daily gain of 0.687 kg per day and was sold to Pat DeRosemond of Carstairs
for $600. The animal that sold for the highest price at the sale was also from Mr. Kure's
flock. It had an average daily gain of 0.654 kg and was sold to James and Donna Turney of

Tees for $750.

(cont'd!

hone: (403)427-2121

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Outstanding Year For Alberta Lamb Testing Station (cont'd)

As the table below shows, individual ram lambs from five different breeds estab-
lished new average daily gain records this year.

Breed 1983 Daily Gain Records Previous Daily Gain Records for

the Breed and the Date

Suffolk 0.687 kg/day 0.66 kg/day - 1980

Hampshire 0.637 kg/day 0.62 kg/day - 1980

Dorset 0.482 kg/day 0.469 kg/day - 1982

North Country Cheviot 0.458 kg/day 0.44 kg/day - 1980

Corriedale 0.471 kg/day 0.38 kg/day - 1979

Alberta Agriculture's sheep specialist at Airdrie, John Knapp, says the great im-
provement in average daily gains that have been made over the last year by the Suffolk and
Hampshire breeds is worthy of note. The average daily gain of the Suffolk rams on test in-
creased to 0.514 kg per day from 0.47 in 1982 and the average daily gain of the Hampshire
rams increased to 0.480 kg per day from 0.46 in 1982. According to Mr. Knapp, only rams
that have an average daily gain that is above the test station's average daily gain for their
breed are sold at the station's annual sale.

He reports that rams sold at this year's sale went to Suffolk flocks in British
Columbia and Manitoba and that one Suffolk and four Rambouillet rams were shipped to
Nova Scotia.

A record of 1 73 rams from 38 contributors were entered in the 1 983 test.

Anyone who would like to enter ram lambs in the 1984 Alberta Ram Test should
contact John Knapp, Bag Sen/ice No.1, Airdrie, Alberta, TOM OBO (Telephone: 948-5101)
before February 15, 1984.

- 30 -

November 14, 1983 13
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEEDER CATTLE - WHAT CAN YOU PAY?

Alberta Agriculture's publication entitled "Feeder Cattle - What
Can You Pay?" has been updated and includes costs of gain and breakeven
prices for backgrounding and finishing straight-bred and crossbred steer
calves and yearlings. The previous publication did not contain any data
on crossbred cattle.

The breakeven sale price is the price that must be received to
cover the cost of the feeder and the cost of gain. The cost of gain
includes feed, interest, death losses and yardage expenses. For any
particular operation it will depend upon the weight, age and sex of the
feeder as well as on its production and health performance. Because the
cost of gain is specific to an individual operation, cattle feeders would
be wise to estimate their own costs of gain from their own data.

The breakeven sale price covers only the costs included in the
cost of gain. In the examples given in the publication no provision has
been made for fixed costs or profit. If a cattle feeder wants to make
a profit of $50 on a 1,000-pound steer, his sale price will have to be
$5 per hundredweight above his breakeven price.

The following table was developed using the cost of gain as it
has been calculated in the publication and using current purchase prices.
The cost data used in the table are as follows: barley $2.20 per bushel;
hay $70 per ton; death losses for calves 2 per cent; death losses for
yearlings one per cent; interest 14 per cent and yardage expenses 15c

-(cont 'd)-

>hone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Feeder Cattle - What Can You Pay? (cont'd)
per head per day.

Purchase Data

Date Weight $/ cwt

Steer Calves - Backgrounding

- British - 1.5 lb/day Nov 1/83 450 80.00

- Exotic - 2 lb/day Nov 1/83 550 80.00

Cost

of
Gain
$/cwt

65.00
61.00

Sale Data

Date

May 20/84
Mar 31/84

Break
Even
Weight $/cwt

750
850

74.00
73.50

Steer Calves - Wintering For Grass

- British - 1.0 lb/day Nov

1/83

450

.00

May

20/84

650

.50

- Exotic - 1.5 lb/day Nov

1/83

550

.00

Mar

15/84

750

.00

Steer Calves - Finishing

- British - 2.25 lb/day Nov

1/83

450

.00

Jul

26/84

1050

.00

- Exotic - 2.5 lb/day Nov

1/83

550

.00

Jun

29/84

1150

.00

Yearling Steers - Feeders

- British - 2.75 lb/day Oct

1/83

750

.00

Jan

18/84

1050

.50

- Exotic - 3 lb/day Oct

1/83

850

.00

Jan

26/84

1200

.00

- British - 3 lb/day Oct

1/83

900

.00

Dec

3/83

1100

.00

- Exotic - 3.25 lb/day Oct

1/ 83

1000

.000

.00

Jan

1/84

1300

.00

Copies of "Feeder Cattle - What Can You Pay?" (Agdex 420/816-2)
can be obtained from district agriculturists or by writing to the
Publications Office, J.G. 0'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 113 Street,
Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30-

November 14, 1983 15
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A NEW METHOD FOR CONTROLLING WARBLE GRUBS

Alberta cattlemen have four instead of three methods to choose from this fall
when treating their cattle for warble grubs.

The new method involves the injection of a product called Ivomec. It, like the
pour-on, spot-on and the high pressure spray methods that have been the only methods avail-
able in the past, will control warble grubs and lice at the time of treatment. And it will also
control all internal parasites except tapeworms. However, because Ivomec is a drug, as
opposed to a pesticide, it is a bit more expensive than the conventional products.

Alberta Agriculture's livestock pest control specialist, Dr. AN Khan, recommends
that cattlemen choose the warble control method that is most suitable for their particular
operation.

The pour-on method is quirk and simple to use, but it requires holding facilities
such as a chute.

The spot-on method is a very quick way of applying a ready-to-use highly concen-
trated systemic insecticide. The insecticide can be applied with an applicator gun or a device
called a squeeze-spot.

The high pressure spray method is used for applying a diluted insecticide under
350 to 400 pounds of pressure. This method gives longer lasting louse control than the
others, but it requires special spraying equipment and special animal holding facilities.

Dr. Khan points out that cattle that have been treated for warble grubs in the
fall are also protected to a certain degree from severe infestation of lice during the coldest
months of the year — December and January.

- 30 -

Ahex\o

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

>hone: (403)427-2121

November 14, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GRAIN MARKETING SEMINAR

"Keeping Alberta In Touch With The World" is the theme of Alberta Agricul-
ture's second annual grain marketing seminar, which will be held in Rimbey on December 2.

Dr. Andrew Schmitz, one of North America's foremost agricultural economists,

will be the keynote speaker. A native of Saskatchewan where he maintains an interest in the
family farming operation, Dr. Schmitz is currently a pre fessor of agriculture and resource
economics at the University of California in the U.S.A. He has written four books on agricul-
tural economic concerns, and he has more than 80 manuscripts in print. His consulting ex-
perience includes work for groups such as the Ford Foundation, Sunkist Growers Inc. and the
Central Intelligence Agency. And he has given presentations to groups all over North Amer-
ica as well as to groups in such countries as Israel, Germany, Sweden and Finland.

Dr. Schmitz will speak on the American government's farm policy — its impact
on prices and production and the spin-off effect on Canadian agriculture.

Dr. Georgina Vitonova, economist for the International Affairs Directorate with
Agriculture Canada in Ottawa, will speak on trade prospects with centrally planned econ-
omies. She has been described over the last 15 years as North America's foremost "Soviet
watcher"! And she recently returned from a meeting of the Paris-based Organization of
Economic Cooperation and Development.

Don Bousquet, manager of the Farm Market Network in Winnipeg, Manitoba, will
be looking at the supply and demand picture for the world's competitive crops, and he will
outline the direction he sees Canadian grain prices taking over the next year. Mr. Bousquet is
well known by many farmers for his daily market reports.

(cont'd)

/dlborra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Brancn

Grain Marketing Seminar (cont'd)

Ken W. Stickland of Cen Alta Grain Ltd. will be focussing on the Canadian gram
industry and its market options and alternatives for Alberta farmers. He is well known for
his consultations with the federal government on the rail freight rate ,ssue and he is a founder
of Cen Alta Grain,

Pre-reg,stration is required for the seminar which will be restricted to 200 on a
first come, first served bas.s . The registration fee is $20 per person or $30 for a husband and
w,fe. which includes lunch. Registration starts a, 9:30 a m. on December 2 a, the R,mbey
Community Hall. Further information on the sem,nar and on pre-reg,s,ering can be obtained
by calling 843-2201.

- 30 -

r7 /L^y ^>

1 /j FA

CANADIANS

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Seniors' Home Improvement Program 1

Number Of Calves Sold At Government Monitored Certified Sales Increasing 4

Skip-Feeding Pregnant Sows 6

Members Of Alberta Sugar Beet Growers' Marketing Board Announced 8

Sheep Footrot Eradicated From Grazing Reserve 9

Alberta Chicken Industry Outlook 11

Average Protein And Bushel Weight Values Of Alberta Feed Grains 12

Winners At The Calgary Seed Fair And Hay Show 14

Numbers Of Livestock On Alberta Farms 16

Farming And The Challenge Of The 80's 17

Cattle Artificial Insemination Courses 18

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SENIORS' HOME IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Senior citizens who own their own home, who are planning to repair or im-
prove it, and who have not yet received a grant under the Alberta Government's Seniors'
Home Improvement Program, but would like to do so, can obtain a brochure and an appli-
cation form from their local bank, Treasury Branch or any other participating financial insti-
tution.

Alberta Agriculture's farm management economist, Doug Barlund says all senior
citizens in Alberta who own their own home, and who have an income of $20,000 or less
a year, including those who participated in the Alberta Pioneers' Repair Program, are eligible
for the seniors' program.

The Seniors' Home Improvement Program commenced on December 1, 1982 and
operates in a manner that is similar to that of the Alberta Pioneers' Repair Program, which
was phased ou t on November 30, 1 982. Mr. Barlund points out that people who have
unspent funds from the pioneers' program can continue to spend them and still apply for a
Seniors' Home Improvement grant. The unspent funds from the pioneers' program will not
reduce the size of the grant the applicant is eligible to receive under the Seniors' Home
Improvement Program.

A person who receives a Seniors' Home Improvement grant has four years from
the dale his or her application is approved in which to spend the money.
Eligibility

To be eligible for a grant, the applicant must own his or her own home, the home
must be his or her place of residence for at least nine months of the year, and he or she must
be at least 65 years of age, except in the case of a widow or a widower, when people between
the ages of 55 and 64 may qualify under the program. The applicant must also be either a

(cont'd)

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Senior's Home Imrpovement Program (cont'd)

Canadian citizen with at least 10 years residency in Canada or a landed immigrant with at
least 10 years residency in Canada. And he or she must have lived in Alberta for at least
a year prior to the date of the application. Single family dwellings, duplexes, fourplexes,
row-houses, condominiums and mobile homes are all eligible under the program, but only one
grant is allowed per household.
Amount of Grant

According to Mr. Barlund, there are basically three levels of grants, and the size of
grant that a senior citizen is eligible to receive will depend upon his or her income. For ex-
ample, an applicant whose income for the last calendar year was $15,000 or less or who is
presently receiving the Alberta Assured Income Supplement would be eligible for a $3,000
grant, as would a couple whose combined income for the same period was $1 5,000 o/ less or
who were receiving the income supplement. A person whose income was between $15,001
and $17,500 or a couple whose combined income was between $15,001 and $17,500 would
be eligible for a $2,000 grant. And a person who had an income of between $17,501 and
$20,000 or a couple whose combined income was between $17,501 and $20,000 would be
eligible for a $1 ,000 grant.

"Applicants" says Mr. Barlund, "who have an income from farming must submit
an itemized, signed statement of this income with their application or a copy of their income
tax return for the last calendar year, complete with all schedules used. And they must submit
a copy of their latest property tax notice.
Eligible Work and Materials

Only those items or services purchased after an applicant has received the Seniors'
Home Improvement Program Identification Card will be eligible for reimbursement under the
program. An eligible applicant may receive a reimbursement up to the amount of his or her

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Seniors' Home Improvement Program (cont'd)

grant for repairs and improvements done to the house or girage as well as for money spent to
purchase, install, maintain, repair, clean or improve a heating system; to purchase, install or
repair a stove, a refrigerator, a washer, a dryer, an air conditioner, a deep freeze or a dish-
washer; and to purchase, install, maintain, repair or improve a water heater, a water softener,
a sink, tubs and other plumbing fixtures.

Mr. Barlund says a prospective applicant who is in doubt about the eligibility of
any home repair item should contact the Alberta Government's home improvement branch.
And he points out that an eligible applicant can hire a relative, friend or contractor to carry
out a repair or an improvement project.

In addition to being available from banks, Treasury Branches and other participat-
ing financial institutions, brochures and application forms for the Seniors' Home Improve-
ment Drogram can be obtained from:

The Home Improvement Branch
Main Floor, Devonian Building
1 1 1 56 - Jasper Avenue
Box 2453

Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3B8
Telephone: 427-5760

The Alberta Department of Housing
4th Floor

855 - 8th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, Alberta, T2P 3P1
Telephone: 297-8464

- 30-

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NUMBER OF CALVES SOLD AT GOVERNMENT
MONITORED CERTIFIED SALES INCREASING

The number of calves that have been preconditioned and preimmunized under the
Alberta Certified Preconditioned Feeder Program and sold at government monitored certified
sales has increased steadily since the program was initiated in 1980.

Dwight Karren, Alberta Agriculture's regional livestock supervisor at Red Deer,
reports that 1,300 calves were sold at the first sale, and that this number had increased to
5,000 by 1981. Last year 8,15' calves out of a total of 16,256 animals that had been pre-
conditioned or preimmunized were sold at 14 monitored sales.

All calves that are sold as preconditioned animals at a monitored sale must have
been dehorned, castrated, treated for warbles and vaccinated with an I BR — Pl3 vaccine and
a 7-way clostridial vaccine at least three weeks before the sale; and they must have been at
least four months old when they were vaccinated. They must also have been weaned at
least 30 days before the sale. The preconditioned calves, which will be accompanied by a
certificate, can be identified at monitored sales by a green tag.

Calves that are sold as preimmunized animals will have met all the above require-
ments except that they will not have been weaned before the sale. They too will be accom-
panied by a certificate, and they can be identified by a white tag.

Following is a list of the places where the certif ied sales will be held this year and
the dates on which they will be held.

Stettler November 25

Clyde November 26

- (cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Number Of Calves Sold At Government Monitored Certified Sales Increasing (cont'd]

Rimbey

Rocky Mountain House

Ponoka

Grande Prairie

Olds

Red Deer

Wainwright

Edmonton

December 1
December 2
December 3

December 5

December 7
December 9

Mr. Karren says that the Alberta Certified Preconditioned Feeder Program is
becoming increasingly popular because preconditioned and preimmunized calves have proved
to be economically beneficial to both the producer and the feeder.

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SKIP-FEEDING PREGNANT SOWS

Skip-feeding is fast becoming the most popular and the most efficient way o1
feeding pregnant sows that are kept out-of-doors.

Alberta Agriculture's monogastric nutritionist, Sam Jaikaran, explains that with
this feeding method the sows are fed once every two or three days, and that they are given all
the feed they can eat over a period of several hours. He emphasizes, however, that enough
feeder space must be provided for all the sows to eat at the same time if the method is to
work. And he says the use of a self-feeder is usually the best way of ensuring that all the
sows eat at once

He goes on to point out that skip-feeding prevents some of the feeding problems
that are encountered when groups of sows are fed on the ground once a day. The main prob-
lem with this type of feeding is that the more agressive "boss" sows eat more than was in-
tended, while those that are more timid eat less than was intended. The result is an increasing
disparity in weight gains and in the overall condition of the sows. Because skip-feeding seems
to encourage more uniformity in feed consumption, it all but eliminates this problem.

Mr. Jaikaran says that the length of time that sows should be allowed to spend at
a self-feeder will vary depending upon how often they are fed. Gilts usually require more
time than sows. Mr. Jaikaran thinks that four to six hours of feeding time should be enough
when sows are fed every second day. However, they may require more time if they are fed
every third day. In essence, the appropriate length of the feeding time will be determined by
the condition of the sows and the amount of feed each sow eats. The latter may be calcul-
ated by dividing the quantity of feed put into the feeder by the number of sow-feedings it
provided (sow feedings = the number of sows x the number of times fed).

According to Mr. Jaikaran, there are various ways in which pens can be arranged
to give the sows easy access to the self-feeder. An arrangement whereby the self-feeder is

(cont'd)

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Skip- Feeding Pregnant Sows (cont'd)

placed in the centre of a rectangular area surrounded by four pens of equal size is commonly
used for herds of about 100 sows. Each of the pens holds irom 20 to 25 animals and has its
own gate to the feeder area.

On Day 1, the sows in Pen 1 are allowed access to the feeder in the morning and
are taken out at noon. The sows in Pen 2 then go in and are removed in +he evening. On Dev
2, the sows in Pen 3 are allowed into the feeder area in the morning and removed at noon.
The sows in Pen 4 go in for the afternoon and are removed in the evening Hence, the whole
cycle is repeated everv two days.

Mr. Jaikaran reports that little difference in feed intake has been foimd during
the entire pregnancy period of sows that were fed by the skip-feeding method and those that
were fed by the group method. "The biggest advantage of the former," he says, "is the re-
duction in the number of over fat sows and thin sows, which results in a more evenly fleshed
heal This, in turn, results in easier farrowing and the birth of more live pigs. Sows in good
condition also have a better appetite during their lactation, produce more milk and breed
more quickly after they have been weaned. And labor savings represent a big plus for the
skip-feeding method."

- 30 -

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEMBERS OF ALBERTA SUGAR BEET GROWERS'
MARKETING BOARD ANNOUNCED

The Agricultural Products Marketing Council has announced the
appointment of the provisional members of the Alberta Sugar Beet Growers'
Marketing Board, which was approved in October of this year. They will serve for
not more than 18 months after which the members will be elected by the pro
ducers at the board's annual meeting.

Following is a list of the provisional members, all of whom are sugar
beet growers.

. John Vaselenak of Coaldale

. Walter F. Boras of Iron Springs

. Steve Tokariuk of Lethbridge

. Ed Hranac of Coaldale

. Jim Csabay of Coaldale

. Peter Vanden Dungen of Vauxhall

. Gerard Van Nistelrooy of Picture Butte

. Dick Butler of Bow Island

. Norman Hall of Taber

. Rudy Gregus of Taber

. Paul Thibodeau of Taber
As provisional members, they will be responsible for guiding the Alberta
Sugar Beet Growers' Marketing Board through its formative stages and for devel-
oping a foundation upon which the board can provide a beneficial service to sugar
beet growers and to the sugar beet industry as a whole.

30 ■

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SHEEP FOOTRQT ERADICATED FROM GRAZING RESERVE

The head of Alberta Agriculture's livestock inspection section, Dr. Ralph Shute,
has announced the eradication of footrot from the sheep flock on the Medicine Lake Provin-
cial Grazing Reserve.

He reports that an intensive eradication program has been in place on the reserve
since 1981 when it was decided that something had to be done about footrot which had been
a serious problem in the sheep for many years. The program involved the inspection by a
veterinarian of all sheep that were destined for the reserve before they left their home farms.
And it involved informing the sheep producers who used the pasture of the measures that
were necessary for eradicating the disease. They included trimming the animals' hooves, dis-
infectant foot baths and moving the sheep to a clean area after treatment so that they would
not become recontaminated.

Dr. Shute says the fact that the organism that causes footrot in sheep cannot
survive in the environment for more than two weeks is the key to its eradication.

He attributes the success of the eradication program to the efforts and coopera-
tion of the sheep producers who used the reserve, to the grazing reserve personnel and their
management, to the local veterinarians who inspected the sheep and to Alberta Agriculture
staff.

He says the periodic inspection md foot bathing that took place during the
pasture season were important steps in eradicating the footrot. And he says that a similar
program will be in effect in future years to maintain the present health status of the sheep
on the reserve.

- (cont'd) -

Phone: (403)427-2121

Aha\a

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Sheep Footrot Eradicated From Grazing Reserve (cont'd)

He also emphasizes that the continued availability of the Medicine Lake Provincial
Grazing Reserve to sheep producers will depend upon whether or not there is a sufficient
number of healthy sheep to form an economically viable pasture flock. However, in view of
this year's successful eradication program, he expects that the number of sheep entered for
the pasture next year will be considerably higher than it has been in the past. The cost of
grazing an ewe during the 1983 pasture season was approximately $7.30.

Information regarding the pasturing of sheep on the Medicine Lake Provincial
Grazing Reserve in 1984 can be obtained from Morris Seiferling, Regional Manager of Grazing
Reserves, Box 411, Drayton Valley, Alberta, TOE OMO (Telephone: 542-3537).

-30 -

1 1

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA CHICKEN INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

Several factors suggest that 1984 should be a good year for Alberta's
chicken industry, especially after the first quarter.

Alberta Agriculture's dairy and poultry analyst, Dave Hope, says Cana-
dian chicken stocks are at a manageable level, illegal production is under control,
feed costs are expected to begin to fall by mid-1984 and a reduction in the supply
of red meat later in the year should put chicken in a good competitive position.

Although both feed grain and oilseed prices are expected to continue
variable into 1984, average feed costs in the first half of next year are not likely to
go above the levels that have already been experienced. Mr. Hope says in the
absence of a crop disaster next summer, feed costs will begin to drop in mid-1984
and should fall to levels that are lower than those seen this fall. He also says pork
and beef prices should begin to rise by the second quarter of next year.

The Canadian Chicken Marketing Agency has established the first
quarter 1984 quota at 94.9 million kg and the annual quota at 384.8 million kg.
This should provide ample supplies of chicken in the first quarter of 1984 and a
good opportunity for those provinces that overproduced in 1983 to make produc-
tion cutbacks so that they are in a position to take advantage of a strong market
leter in the year. However, Mr. Hope points out that the annual quota of 384.8
million kg is still preliminary, and that the final figure will be determined by the
sum of the quarterly quotas that are announced during the year.

The above article is based on information that was available in Oc tober. 1983.

- 30

><llberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AVERAGE PROTEIN AND BUSHEL WEIGHT VALUES
OF ALBERTA FEED GRAINS

The Agricultural Soil and Feed Testing Laboratory in Edmonton receives numer-
ous inquiries every year regarding the differences in the protein content and bushel weights
of Alberta feed grains.

Three publications entitled "Average Protein and Bushel Weight Values for
Alberta Wheat Grain Varieties" (Agdex 112/81-1); "Average Protein and Bushel Weight
Values for Alberta Oats Grain Varieties" (Agdex 1 13/81-1); and "Average Protein and Bushel
Weight Values for Alberta Barley Grain Varieties" (Agdex 1 14/81-1 ) give the analysis results
of the individual varieties in each of the three types of grain. The data are based on samples
that were analyzed at the laboratory between 1)69 and 1982.

The number of samples analyzed, heir protein content (dry weight basis) and
their bushel weights are tabulated on both a provincial and agricultural region basis for each
variety that is listed in the publications. And each publication contains a map showing the
six agricultural regions.

- (cont'd) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Average Protein And Bushel Weight Values of Alberta Feed Grains (cont'd)

Another publication, "1982 Average Analysis of Alberta Feeds" (Agdex
1 00/81-3) contain summaries of the results of the analyses of feeds that were analyzed at the
Agricultural Soil and Feed Testing Laboratory in 1982. The information in this publication
is intended to provide farmers, agribusiness personnel, veterinarians, researchers and govern-
ment staff with current information on the average nutrient content of feeds that are grown
in Alberta. Since the nutrient content of an individual feed sample can differ markedly from
the average for that particular type of feed, another publication, entitled 'Average Analysis
of Alberta Feeds — 1976-1980" (Agdex 100/81-2), is recommended for those who would
like more information on the ranges and standard deviations that can occur in the nutrient
content of feeds in this province.

All the above publications can be obtained Irom district agriculturists or by
writing to the Publications Office, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000-1 13
Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

- 30

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WINNERS AT THE CALGARY SEED FAI R AND HAY SHOW

Jerry Kubik of Wrentham won both the Grand Aggregate Exhibitor Award and the
Aggregate Pedigreed Seed Exhibitor Award at the Calgary Seed Fair and Hay Show.

To win the Aggregate Pedigreed Seed Exhibitor Award, Mr. Kubik had to have
the highest number of points in the pedigreed section and to win the Grand Aggregate Exhibi-
tor Award he had to have the highest number of points in the whole show.

John Holmen of Wayne won the championships lor best pedigreed cereal and best
malting barley with his exhibit of Harrington barley. Eddie Owen of Coaldale won the cham-
pionship for the best pedigreed oilseed with his exhibit of McGregor flax and Frank Kastelic
of Sangudo won the championship for the best forage seed with his exhbit of Basho timothy
seed.

The trophy for the best pedigreed oats was won by Mel Ott of Wainwright with
his exhibit of Cascade oats, and the best exhibit in the junior section of the fair was won by
Natasha Kubik of Wrentham with her exhibit of Polish canola.

Ilchuk Seed Farm of Vermilion won first prize in the pedigreed hard red spring
wheat class with an exhibit of Neepawa wheat. Jerry Kubik took first prize in the pedigreed
durum, utility, soft spring and winter wheat class with his exhibit of Norstar winter wheat.
First prize in the pedigreed oat class went to Mel Otl for his exhibit of Cascade oats. The
first prize in the pedigreed malting barley- 6 row class was won by Bob Luco of Lethbridge
with his exhibit of Argyle barley, while John Holmen won the firsl prize in the pedigreed
malting barley - 2 row class with his exhibit of Harringion barley.

The first prize in the pedigreed feed barley class was won by Hussin Seed Farm
Ltd of Calgary with an exhibit of Leduc barley. Eddie Owen won the first prize in the pedi-

(cont'd) -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

>hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Winners At The Calgary Seed Fair And Hav Show (cont'd)

greed flax class with his exhibit of McGregor flax. Jerry Kubik won first prize in the pedi-
greed canola (Polish varieties) class with an exhibit of Tobin canola, while L.G. Dobry of
Viking won first prize in the pedigreed canola (Argentine varieties) and mustard class with his
exhibit of Westar canola.

The pedigreed forage legume seed class was won by Steve Merkl of Brooks with
an exhibit of Algonquin alfalfa, and first prize in the pedigreed forage grass and turf grass
seeds was won by Frank Kastelic with his Basho timothy exhibit.

-30 -

November 21, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NUMBERS OF LIVESTOCK ON ALBERTA FARMS

Recently released results of the National Livestock Survey, conducted by Stat-
istics Canada on July 1 , 1983, indicate a decline in the number of cattle, calves and sheep on
Alberta farms but an increase in the number of hogs in the province.

The total number of cattle and calves on Alberta farms was estimated at
3,805,000 head. Michael Adam of Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch points out that this
figure represents the lowest inventory since 197 1 and marks a decline of more than 5 per cent
from July 1, 1982. He says, apart from bulls, whose numbers have remained relatively un-
changed, significant reductions occurred in all other classes of cattle. A decline of about 7
per cent was recorded for steer, heifer and calf numbers, indicating heavy marketing and
slaughter volumes.

During the one-year period covered by the survey, sheep and lamb numbers
declined by almost 4 per cent to 197,000, while hog numbers rose by 3 per cent to 1 ,180,000
from 1,150,000.

Comparative inventories for the years 1982 and 1983, by census division, are
available from the Statistics Branch, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Building,
7000-1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta. T6H 5T6.

-30-

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 21, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FARMING AND THE CHALLENGE OF THE 80'S

What lies ahead in the 1980's? Alberta Agriculture's northwest region has organ-
ized two seminars entitled "Farming and the Challenge of the 80's" in an attempt to answer
this question. One is scheduled to take place at the Grove Motor Inn in Spruce Grove on
December 14 and the other at theWestlock Inn in West lock on December 15.

Dr. Brian Scarfe, head of the University of Alberta's Economics Department, will
discuss the outlook for interest rates, inflation rates and consumer demand, all of which set
the stage for the future of the agricultural industry. And Les Lyster and Gordon Herrington
of Alberta Agriculture's market analysis branch will present outlook material on grains, oil-
seeds and livestock.

Do people have to re-examine their goals and priorities in view of the fact that the
economic circumstances of the 1980's are different from those of the 1960's and 1970's?
And how can people learn to deal with the stress that is associated with these changes?
Eileen Klien, a former management specialist with Alberta Agriculture, and Lloyd Johnston
of Alberta Agriculture will present somn new and challenging ideas on goals and priorities and
on managing stress.

The seminars will begin at both locations at 9:30 a.m. and the registration fee will
be $10 per person, which will include a noon luncheon.

Further information on "Farming and the Challenge of the 80's" can be obtained
from Alberta Agriculture's district offices in Leduc, Drayton Valley, Evansburg, Edson,
Sangudo, Barrhead, Westlock, Athabasca, Thorhild, Morinville, Sherwood Park and Stony
Plain.

- 30 -

ydlberfa

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 21, 1983 18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CATTLE ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION COURSES

Olds College is holding a series of 10-day courses this winter on the artificial in-
semination (Al) of cattle.

The first course, entitled Al and Dairy Herd Management, will take place from
December 5-16. The second, Al and Purebred Beef Herd Management, will take place from
January 9-20, 1984, and the third, Al and Commercial Beef Herd Management will take place
from January 30 to February 10, 1984. Three other courses, entitled Al and Herd Manage-
ment, Al and Dairy Herd Management and Al and Dairy Herd Management will be held from
February 20 to March 2, 1984, March 12-23, 1984 and April 2 13, 1984, respectively.

All courses Will cover the basic nutritional requirements of the cows, sire selec-
tion, breeding programs, diseases and heat synchronization. The fee for each course is $375,
but participants will have to pay only $275 because Alberta Agriculture's animal industry
division provides a $100 subsidy for each course.

The deadline for registering for any of the above courses is 10 days before they
are scheduled to start, and registrations must be accompanied by a non-refundable deposit of
$65 Cheques should be made payable to Olds College.

The college will also be holding four one-day refresher courses on Al in the new
year. The dales are February 17, 1984, March 9, 1984, March 30, 1984 and April 27, 1984.
They are designed for people who have had previous training and/or experience with Al, and
they will include a careful check of techniques and semen-handling practices. The full fee of
$50 must accompany registrations for these one-day courses, and, again, the deadline for
receipt of registrations is 10 days before the course is due to start.

Additional information on any of the courses on be obtained from the Depart-
ment of Continuing Education, Olds College, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1PO.

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

CANADIANS

FEB 1 51984

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Rat Control In Alberta 1

Food Processing Development Centre To Open In 1984 4

Forage Supply Situation 5

Processed Alfalfa Outlook 6

Forage Cultivar Program 7

Virulent Blackleg Of Canola Found In Albetta 8

Year-End Planning To Reduce The Farm Tax Bite (Part I) 9

Custom Grain Harvesting Rates For 1983 11

Agricultural Fans Being Tested By PAMI 13

Market Garden Courses Scheduled For New Year 14

Emergency Standby Power Unit 15

ADC Loans Officer Appointed To Bonnyville 16

ydlberta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RAT CONTROL IN ALBERTA

Norway Rat

Did you know that under ideal breeding conditions one pair of Norway rats can

produce 350,000,000 descendants in three years?

Sounds incredible, but it is apparently true. A pair of rats can have a litter of
10 or more every month, and the offspring are ready to begin reproducing in three to four
months.

And did you know that rat droppings, urine and hair can transmit infectious
jaundice, salmonella and other intestinal bacterial diseases to man as well as trichinosis via
pigs? Rats can also transmit bubonic plague via fleas, rat-bite fever via a direct bite and other
diseases to both domestic animals and to man.

On the farm rats consume, contaminate and cause the spillage of tonnes of grain
by chewing holes in storage bins, etc. They also eat fresh produce, eggs and even live poultry.
And in industrial areas, they destroy merchandise, woodwork and other material as well as
chew wires.

- (cont'd) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

lone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Rat Control In Alberta (cont'd)

It has been estimated that if rats were to become established in Alberta, the annual
loss to the province would be over $40 million! That they have not become established in the
province is due to the vigilance of its citizens and to Alberta's rat control policy. Under the
Agricultural Pest Act it has been the legal responsibility of every Albertan since 1951 to
prevent the establishment of Norway rats and to destroy any that gain entry to their premises,
whether these premises are owned or simply being occupied. And every city, town, village and
rural municipality is required to appoint a pest control officer to handle local rat control prob-
lems. At the present time Alberta has more than 250 part-time municipal pest control officers
who investigate reports of rat sightings and supervise any action that is required.

Seven full-time rat control officers are employed by Alberta Agriculture along the
Alberta-Saskatchewan border. They maintain permanent poisonous bait stations on the
farms and in the grain elevators in the area as well as in garbage disposal dumps, and they
generally supervise the control measures.

Alberta Agriculture supplies the rodenticides to the municipalities along the

Saskatchewan border that are distributed by the pest control officers. Nearly 10 tonnes
of ready-mix poisonous bait are supplied to this 600 km long border area, known as a buffer
zone, each year. It is enough to control the estimated 20,000 - 40,000 rats which invade it
annually.

The number of rats that get into the rest of Alberta probably averages about 200
a year but it may go as high as 1,000 in some years. Of ihe 75 to 100 infestations that are
discovered each year, many are single rats but a few can involve as many as 50 rats. The max-
imum number of rats that are destroyed in Alberta in a year would probably be around 2,000.

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Rat Control In Alberta (cont'd)

If you would like more details on Alberta's rat control program, and if you would
like to know how to identify a Norway rat, you should get a copy of a publication entitled
"Rat Control in Alberta". In addition to containing information on rat control methods,
eliminating their sources of food and rat-proofing buildings, it has a section on the identifica-
tion of the Norway rat. This section contains some excellent drawings of the Norway rat, the
roof or black rat, the wood or pack rat, the pocket gopher and the muskrat.

Copies of "Rat Control in Alberta" (Agdex 682-2) can be obtained from district
agriculturists or the Print Media Branch, Agriculture Building , 7000- 113 Street, Edmonton,
Alberta, T6H 5T6

-30-

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOOD PROCESSING DEVELOPMENT CENTRETO OPEN IN 1984

When it opens early in the new year, the Food Processing Development Centre
in Leduc will be available to all food processors who use Alberta products and who want to
develop new processes or products or who want to improve existing processes or products.

Financed by the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund Capital Projects Division, it
will consist of an extension section where initial problem solving will take place and a pilot

plant section. The latter Will be used to develop processes on a scale that will approximate
commercial production.

Alberta-based food processing firms will have first priority at the centre, and
not more than half of its space and staff will be used for large projects. Although all food
processors, suppliers of food processing ingredients and equipment, food producer groups and
university research personnel will benefit from the new facility, it is the small processor with
limited funds to spend on product research and development who is expected to benefit the
most.

Those who use the Food Processing Development Centre will not have to pay
the full cost of the research project, but they will be expected to provide their own materials,
and they will probably be asked to pay a labor fee. All information that results from the
research will be kept confidential to ensure that the benefits go to the processor who initiated
it.

- 30 -

Phone:(403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FORAGE SUPPLY SITUATION

Apart from some areas in southern and south-central Alberta, livestock
producers will have adequate to a surplus of hay this winter.

Marilyn Johnson of Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch reports that
limited rainfall reduced hay yields to below normal last summer in the Pincher
Creek and Cardston areas as well as in the Oyen and Scapa areas. She says hay

yields in the north-central, northwestern and Peace River regions were very good,
and that many farmers in those areas have hay for sale. There is an adequate
supply of hay in the northeastern region of the province, but very few farmers are
reporting a surplus.

According to Ms. Johnson, the quality of this year's hay crop is gen-
erally good in spite of the fact that many larmers in central and northern Alberta
put up weedy hay because they were unable to spray during the frequent rain
storms in late June and in July. Also, some of the first cut was overmature when
harvested and some of it was frequently rained on while in the swath. However,
areas where the first cut had been taken off before the rains, produced some
excellent second cut crops as a result of all the moisture. Ms. Johnson says the
quality of the second cut was considerably better than that of the first. And she
says the supply of feed grains is good throughout Alberta.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberfa

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

November 28, 1983

FOR i MM EDI ATE RELEASE

PROCESSED ALFALFA OUTLOOK

Alberta's alfalfa processors can expect continued strong demand and good prices
during the rest of the crop year, says Fred Boyce of Alberta Agriculture's market analysis
branch.

The current situation has arisen partly because western Canada enjoyed a good
alfalfa crop last summer, while drought and hot weather reduced the harvest in the United
States. The lack of American product leaves Canada as the world's main exporter of pro-
cessed alfalfa.

The second factor in the alfalfa market, Mr. Boyce explains, is increased purchases
of Canadian alfalfa products by Japan, the world's dominant buyer. Alfalfa sales to members
of the European Economic Community could also increase substantially from 1982-83 be-
cause of a below-average European alfalfa crop last summer. Mr. Boyce says export ship-
ments could reach a near record by the end of the crop year.

The result of all this is that prices for Alberta's dehy alfalfa have risen over $10
per tonne from last year.

Overall, Mr. Boyce expects Alberta plants will produce 30 per cent more pro-
cessed alfalfa than last year.

After this crop year ends, however, Mr. Boyce views the outlook for processed
alfalfa as "a lot less certain," adding that American production should recover, and more
plants throughout North America will probably be operating.

"Strong export and domestic demand will be needed to maintain current price
levels into the next season," he concludes.

-30-

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

(403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FORAGE CULTIVAR PROGRAM

Have you heard of Agriculture Canada's and Alberta Agriculture's joint Forage
Cultivar Program in the Peace River Region? It is designed to serve Alberta's forage seed
industry by enabling both seed growers and seed trade officials to prepare meaningful con-
tracts.

Under the direction of Henry Nadja, a forage agronomist at the federal research
station in Beaverlodge, the program provides information on the seed production, herbage
capability and the general adaptability of named *oreign perennial grass and legume cultivars
and compares them with Canadian standard varieties. The information is used by the Cana-
dian forage seed industry to help it to develop production contracts and seed export markets.

According to Mr. Nadja, the species being tested under the program are tnose that
are currently being produced for the export seed trade. They are brome grass, red fescue,
timothy, alsike clover, red clover and alfalfa. Other species that appear interesting are also
tested from time to time.

The tests are carried out at six different locations in the Peace River Region and
each site has a series of demonstration plots that include perennial forage species that are
generally adapted to that particular area. Mr. Nadja says the plots have proved very useful for
local seed producers who want to compare variety and species differences in their own
regions. And he expects that the program will eventually provide data that will be used for
developing recommendations for grasses and legumes that are intended to be seeded alone or
in mixtures for herbage production.

You can obtain further information on the Forage Cultivar Program from Mr. H.
Nadja, Beaverlodge Research Station, Box 29, Beaverlodge, Alberta, TOH OCO (Telephone:
354-2212).

A\ba\a

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

• 30 -

►hone: (403)427-2121

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

VIRULENT BLACKLEG OF CANQLA FOUND IN ALBERTA

The virulent strain of blackleg disease of canola, caused by a fungus Lepiosphaeria
maculans was found for the first time in a growers field in Alberta, near Vermilion. Pre-
viously this fungus had been identified only in research plots near Edmonton, presumably
brought in on the seed.

This fungus was identified during a survey carried out by Dr. Prem Kharbanda,
Alberta Environmental Centre, Vegreville. His survey region was part of the province-wide
survey co-ordinated by Dr. leuan R. Evans, Alberta Agriculture.

This disease organism occurred on a recently released cultivar of canola, Westar,
an Argentine type variety from the Saskatchewan canola breeding program. The virulent
strain of blackleg is widespread in the northern and western canola growing areas of Saskatch-
ewan, and in several areas where the disease is well established yield losses of 10 to 25 per
cent have been documented. This same fungus has caused total loss of canola production in
some areas of Australia where perhaps conditions are more favorable for its survival and
spread.

The disease appears as buff colored, round to u regular spots on leaves, and grey
to black canker at the base of the stem. These lesions are dotted with numerous small black
fruiting bodies of the fungus.

The fungus overwinters on crop stubbles, and within and on infected seed. Wild
mustard (Sinapis arvensis) is the only important weed host, though many of our commonly
grown cole crops (turnips, cabbage, cauliflower) are susceptible to this disease. None of the
available canola cultivars is resistant to this disease.

Introduction of this disease into new areas can be prevented by seed treatments
with systemic fungicides containing either benomyl or carbathiin.

/dlborra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

YEAR-END PLANNING TO REDUCE THE FARM TAX BITE (PART I)

by Merle Good
Farm Business Management Branch, Alberta Agriculture

With 1983 drawing to a close, farmers should be seriously thinking about income
tax management. The first step is to checking the accuracy of all income and expenses that
have been recorded during the year so that the various tax strategies can be properly evalu-
ated.

Check all records to make sure that:

. All expense items have been included. Out of pocket expenses that are missed
can be costly. If, for example, a farmer fails to claim a $1 purchase as an expense, the net
cost of that purchase, assuming a 25 pet cent tax bracket, will be $1 .33.

. Individual tools and equipment that cost more than $200 have been depre-
ciated. Items that cost less than $200 can be fully deducted in the year in which they were
purchased. After the November 1981 federal budget it was thought that only 50 per cent of
the purchase price of an item costing less than $200 could be deducted.

. That the business portion of various expenses have been included in the list of
expenses. A quarter of house maintenance expenses, utility expenses and up to two-thirds of
car expenses, including depreciation, can usually be claimed as business expenses.

. Annual accounting and legal fees for the management of the farm and for in-
come tax purposes have been deducted. Legal, appraisal and accounting fees that were asso-
ciated with buying land or equipment can be added to the capital cost of the asset concerned.

. Government subsidies or rebates that were designed to reduce expenses or com-
pensate for income losses in the current or previous years have been reported as income in the
year in which they are received.

- (cont'd) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Year-End Planning To Reduce The Farm Tax Bite (Part I) (cont'd)

. Proper procedures have been followed when reporting income from such un-
usual sources as patronage dividends, insurance proceeds, commodity trading or oil or gas
lease revenue. A publication entitled "Reporting Unusuai Farm Income for Tax Purposes"
(FS 837-10), available from district agriculturists, discusses these and other unusual sources
of income.

. A reasonable sum has been deducted as a business expense for business travel
and for up to two conventions per year when applicable. Eligible expenses include travel,
registration fees, meals and lodging. Receipts are necessary to document these expenses.

. Half the normal capital cost allowance has been deducted on any depreciable
assets that were purchased in the last year, after the trade-in value has been deducted. Prior
to the November 1981 federal budget, the whole of the capital cost allowance could be
deducted in the first year.

Interest charges associated with commodity trading that yielded a capital gain
have been added to the original purchase price of the contract. This change, which resul-
ted from a recent federal court ruling, means that a capital gain can be reduced and that
a capital loss can be increased.

A farmer who has determined through the above procedure what his projected
taxable income is likely to be is in a position to decide whether he wants to adjust it, and,
if so, in which direction.

- 30

1 !

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CUSTOM GRAIN HARVESTING RATES FOR 1983

Custom grain harvesting rates for 1983 increased from those of 1982, according
to a survey that is carried out every year by Alberta Agriculture's statistics and farm business
management branches.

The data below were obtained by contacting custom operators in each of the six
regions that are listed and represent actual charges in those regions. Region 1 consists of the
area extending from the American border to High River; Region 2 is the area from High River
to Olds; Region 3 is the area from Olds to Camrose; Region 4 is the area that extends from
Camrose to Fort McMurray and east; Region 5 is the area that extends from Camrose to
Athabasca and west; and Region 6 is the Peace River region.

Combining and Trucking ($ Per Acre and $ Per Hour)

Region
1

Most Common 1982
$17418

$14-$15

$13-$15

$15
$14-10

Range 1983

$10-$25
$75-$80/hri;!

$1 2-$1 8a
$75-$125/hr

$10-$18a
$100-1 10/hr

$ 1 2a

$85-$ 1 10/hr
$19a

$85-$100/hra

$12ab
$100/hra

Most Common 1983

$19-$20
$75-$80/hr

$12-$18d
$120/hr

$10-$18a
$1 10/hr

$12ab

$85-$1 10/hr
$193

$85-$100/hra
$12

$100/hrab

a. Two reports or less per region

b. Combining only

Phone: (403)427-2121

- (cont'd)

>dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Custom Grain Harvesting Rates for 1983 (cont'd)

The survey also showed that swathing costs ranged from $4 to $10 per acre in
1983 with the most common charge in all regions being $5 to $5.50 per acre. This was a
slight increase from 1982. Trucking costs ranged from 10 £to15 £ per bushel for all regions,
which was the same as last year.

Alberta Agriculture's farm management specialist in the area of custom rates,
Gerd Andres, says this year's custom contract rate differed somewhat from that of last year.
Half of the custom operators surveyed this year charged an hourly rate whereas only 35 per
cent of the operators surveyed in 1982 charged an hourly rate. The 1983 survey also revealed
differences among the regions. Most of the custom operators in Region 1, for example,
charged on a per acre basis while most of those in Regions 2, 3 and 4 charged on an hourly
basis.

Additional information on custom rates for all operations can be obtained from
district agriculturists, from Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch in Edmonton at 427-4019
or from the department's farm business management branch in Olds at 556-4247.

November 28, 1933

FOP IMMEDIATE RElEASE

AGRICULTURAL FANS BEING TESTED BY PAMI

Did you know the Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute (PAMI) has an agricultural
fan testing facility at its Lethbridge station?

Ed Wiens, manager and senior engineer at the station, says the facility was deve-
loped to meet the growing demand from farmers and from industry and government agencies
for reliable and comparative information on the capacity and specifications of the more than
300 ventilation fan models, and at least an equal number of dryer and aeration fans, that are
on the market todav.

This growing demand is the result of advances that have been made in livestock and
poultry buildings, which has been accompanied by a vast number of new ventilating and con-
trolled environment systems. It is also the result of the greatly increased interest in grain dry-
ing equipment as well as in the use of cooling fans for vegetable storage areas.

In addition to helping farmers to choose the most suitable fan on the basis of its
capacity, energy efficiency, safety, power requirements, ease of operation and specifications,
the PAMI reports are designed to help farmers to use fans properly. PAMI also works with
manufacturers who are developing new energy-efficient fans and who are involved in improving
the performance of existing models.

The fan test results wili be available in the usual PAMI evaluation report format
when the tests have been completed.

Further information on agricultural fans and on the test results of other agri-
cultural machinery and equipment can be obtained in Alberta from the Prairie Agricultural
Machinery Institute, c/o LCC Campus, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1 K 1 L6 (Telephone: 329-1212).

Abaia

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-30

•hone: (403)427-2121

November 28, 1983

for Immediate release

MARKET GARDEN COURSES SCHEDULED FOR NEW YEAR

Alberta Agriculture will sponsor market garden short courses in Red Deei and
Fairview in the new year, says Lloyd Hausher, market garden specialist with the Alberta
Horticultural Research Center. Times and dates for the courses are as follows:

Red Deer — at the Black Knight Inn from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
on January 10,1 1 and 12, 1984.

Fairview — at the Dunvegan Motor Inn from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
on January 24, 25 and 26, 1984.

The topics to be covered during the first day of both courses will include veg-
etable marketing, planning and managing a market garden, market garden equipment, and
strawberry and raspberry production. The second day will feature early crop production
(transplants, plastic mulches and tunnels), vegetable varieties and culture, disease and insect
control and presentations by established market gardeners. The third day will cover such
topics as vegetable storage and design, accounting and taxation, and weed control. A dinner
is planned on the evening of the third day with a guest speaker-producer.

All the courses are designed for people who grow vegetables or fruit on a comm-
ercial basis, and those who are seriously considering going into the market garden business.
They are not intended for the home gardener, Mr. Hausher says.

The registration fee for the courses in Red Deer and Fairview will be $10 per
person per day or $25 for the three days. The fee for the Thursday banquet is $15.

You can obtain further information on the market garden short courses and
application forms from Lloyd Hausher, Alberta Horticultural Research Center, Bag Service
200, Brooks, Alberta, TOJ OJO (Telephone: 362-3391).

-30-

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

'hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

EMERGENCY STANDBY POWER UNIT

An emergency standby power unit is a good irvestment for a farmer whose live-
stock depend heavily on a continuous supply of electricity for heat, ventilation, automatic
feeding, etc. or who has a bulk tank.

Such a power unit can be driven by an engine or by the power take-off on a
tractor. Units run by a power take-off are a less expensive than engine-driven units and are
less complicated than an automatic engine-driven unit.

Engine-driven units can be started manually or automatically, they can be fuelled
by gasoline, diesel or propane and they come in a variety of sizes.

Most automatically started units restore power within three to 15 seconds after
a power failure, and they shut off when normal power is restored. The main disadvantage of
an automatically started unit is that it costs roughly two and-a-half t imes as much as a
tractor-driven unit. The main disadvantage of a tractor-driven power unit is that the tractor
must be manually connected to the unit.

The size of a standby power unit required will depend upon type of livestock
enterprises involved and whether the unit is to be used to supply electricity for the whole
farm or to supply just enough to keep certain essential equipment going in an emergency.
And its location will depend upon such things as the number of buildings that will have to be
supplied with electricity in an emergency and the location of the electrical system to which it
will be connected.

More detailed information on choosing a standby power unit is contained in a
TransAlta Utilities publication entitled "Emergency Standby Power". It can be obtained
from district agriculturists or by writing to the Publications Office, J.G. O'Donoghue Build-
ing, 7000 - 1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone: (403)427-2121

November 28, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ADC LOANS OFFICER APPOINTED TO BONNYVI LLE

Peter Ignatiuk, the Agricultural Development Corporation's (ADC)
regional manager for the Vermilion region, has announced the appointment of
Russell McAllister to the position of loans officer in Bonnyville.

Mr. McAllister was born in Cowansville, Quebec, and was raised on his
parents' mixed farm in Ontario. He is a graduate of the Kemptville College of Agri-
cultural Technology and brings tc the corporation a vast amount of agricultural
experience as a result of having operated a farm for 10 years and of having been
employed in the agricultral service field for the past 19 years.

During the last 10 years, Mr. McAllister has been the district manager
for the Saskatchewan Land Bank Commission in Tisdale, Saskatchewan, where he
was responsible for administering land leases to farmers, including some land and
building development loans. With the dissolution of the Saskatchewan Land Bank
Commission, he was transferred to the lands branch of Saskatchewan Agriculture.
Part of this time he worked for the Farm Credit Corporation as seconded staff.

Mr. McAllister, his wife and one daughter will be making their home in

Bonnyville.

-30-

alberta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

CANJ

FEB 1 5 1984

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Federal-Provincial Program Aids Companies In Edmonton Area 1

Potato Outlook 2

Alberta's Female Farm Operators 3

Swine Breeding Research 5

Year-End Planning To Reduce The Farm Tax Bite (Part II) 7

Alberta Agriculture And The Alberta Optometric

Association Co-operate In Joint Project 9

Custom Tillage Rates For 1983 10

Breeder Seed Ordering Time 12

Animal Health Homestudy Course Scheduled For Red Deer And Vermilion 13

Livestock Electrocution Fatalities 14

Distr ict Home Economist Appointed At Giande Prairie 15

Phone: (403)427-2121

alberta

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 5, 1 983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FEDERAL-PROVINCIAL PROGRAM AIDS COMPANIES
IN EDMONTON AREA

Four Edmonton area companies will receive a total of $190,725 under the
Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance Agreement.

One is the Barrhead Alfalfa and Protec Products Ltd, which will receive $1 18,610
to establish an alfalfa pelleting and dairy suppliment facility near Barrhead. The plant will
produce alfalfa pellets for both the domestic and export market as well as supplements for
dairy cattle. The cost of the new facility is es imated at $495,000 and 30 jobs are expected
to be created.

The second company is an alfalfa dehydrating plant near Calmar, which will
receive $34,467 to switch from a stationary operation to a mobile one. The latter is said to
be more cost efficient in the long-run. The switch is estimated to cost $192,000 and it is
expected that four additional jobs will be created.

The third company is Cottage Bakery Ltd of Onoway, which will receive $29,320.
It is a new bakery and will soon be producing r full line of baked goods for Onoway and the
surrounding area. Its cost estimated at $1 1 7,000 and it is ex >ected to employ three people.

The fourth company is D & R Feed Services at Thorsby. It will receive $8,328
to establish a hay processing facility. The addi'ion of this new facility will provide a service
that has long been requested by D & R Feed Sei vices' customers. The hay processing facility
is estimated to cost approximately $33,000 and to orovide two jobs.

The Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance Agreement is jointly adminis-
tered and equally funded by the two levels of government. Since it was signed in 1975,
almost $23 million of assistance had been offered to businesses in rural Alberta.

Further information can be obtained from Dr. Jim Wiebe at 427-4287.

- 30

Phone:(403)427-2121

Ahex\a

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

POTATO PRICE OUTLOOK

Prices for Aiberta's 1983 potato ciop are expected to remain above those for The
1982 crop despite the fact that this year's crop was considerably larger than that of last year.

Fred Boyce, special commodities analyst with Alberta Agriculture's market
analysis branch, says small crops in nearly all of the major potato-growing areas of the world
and higher prices throughout North America should provide Alberta's growers with a good
market and ample opportunity to move their 1983 crop at favorable prices.

Although Alberta's crop is estimated at 4.6 million hundredweight, or more than
9 per cent larger than it was last year, initial estimates place the North American crop as a
whole at 346.3 million hundredweight, which would be 6.2 per cent smaller than it was in
1982.

Mr. Boyce reports that good growing condit ons in southern Alberta resulted in
some excellent yields in that area, and that the size and the quality of the potatoes are above
average. He also says that the quality of this year's Norh American crop is generally good,
but that unfavorable growing conditions in many places resulted in smaller than usual pota-
toes, and, consequently, lower yields.

The demand for fresh and processing potatoes has been very good across North
America and is expected to continue to be good

- 3( -

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlberfa

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA'S FEMALE FARM OPERATORS

Statistics recently released from the 1981 Agricultural Census indicate that 2.8
per cent of Alberta's farm operators are women compared with 3.4 per cent in 1971 .

According to Marilyn Johnson of Mberta Agriculture's statistics branch the de-
crease in the percentage of female farm operators between 1971 and 1981 occurred in all the
provinces except for Ontario and British Columbia, where it increased. She says British
Columbia has continued to have the highest percentage of female farm operators (7.8 per
cent in 1981 and 6 per cent in 1971 ).

In Alberta the highest number of female farm operators is in the Wetaskiwin —
Morinville - Drayton Valley — Tofield area. Ms. Johnson says approximately 5 per cent of
the farm operators in this area are women.

Of Alberta's 1,635 female farm operatcrs, 42 per cent are reported as being
widowed, 40 per cent as being married, 8 per cent as being single, 6 per cent as being divorced
and 4 per cent as being separated. The statistics for Alberta's 55,780 male farm operators
show that 86 per cent of them were married, 10 per cent single, 2 per cent divorced, one per
cent widowed and one per cent separated. And the number of female widowed farm opera-
tors between the ages of 30 and 59 exceeds the number of male widowed farm operators in
the same age category. The number of male farm operatcrs exceeds the number of females
in all the other marital status categories which are grouped by sex and age. Another factor
revealed by the census data is that the greatest proportion of female farm operators are over
50 years of age, while 57 per cent of the male farm operato s are under 50 years of age. Only
43 per cent of the female farm operators were less than 50 ^ears of age.

- (cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Alberta's Female Farm Operators (cont'd)

Ms. Johnson says that nearly half of Alberta's farms run by women are between
70 and 399 acres in size, 1 6 per cent are between 400 and 759 acres and 1 7 per cent are more
than 760 acres. Male farm operators tend towards larger farms with 37 per cent being be-
tween 70 and 399 acres, 23 per cent between 400 and 759 acres and 33 per cent more than
760 acres.

The distribution of female farm operators by type of farm shows 36.6 per cent
are involved in cattle operations, 6.2 per cent in dairy operations, 14.4 per cent in wheat
operations and 24.9 per cent in grain operations other than wheat. By comparison 31.4 per
cent of all male farm operators are involved in cattle operations, 5.4 per cent in dairy opera-
tions, 14.3 per cent in wheat operations and 34.6 per cent in grain operations other than
wheat. Ms. Johnson points out that based on this proportional involvement within each sex
category, more female farm operators than male farm operators are engaged in cattle and
dairy operations.

She explains that the above categorizing of farms into types is based on the value
of agricultural products sold in each of the commodity or group of commodity categories. If
51 per cent or more of a farm's total potemial sales came from a particular product,e.g.
wheat, then the farm was considered to be a wheat farm.

An examination of the statistics on the value of products sold show that the aver-
age sales of female farm operators were $24,895 compared with $57,020 for their male
counterparts. While 52 per cent of the female farm operators sold less than $1 0,000 worth of
agricultural products in 1980, only 30 per cant of the male farm operators were in this
category.

Additional information on the Agricultural Census can be obtained from the
Statistics Branch, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000-1 1 3 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6
(Telephone: 427-4020).

- 30 -

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SWINE BREEDING RESEARCH

The management of breeding gilts to increase production is the focus of a study
that has been supported by Alberta Agriculture's Farming for the Future Program since 1981 .

According to Robert Blair, an animal scientist at the University of Saskatchewan
in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, who is in charge of the study and who has received $74,000
under the Farming for the Future Program, North American sow herds are notoriously in-
efficient. He says that, on average, they wean only 13 piglets a year compared with their
potential capacity of 25 piglets a year. Since farmers in countries like Denmark, and even
some farmers in Canada, are achieving this potential, there is obviously something wrong, in
Dr. Blair's opinion, with the average producer's management practices.

He and his colleagues are a ming at providing information that would enable

some producers to breed gilts during thair first estrus, as opposed their third, which is the
common practice, and thereby get a higher lifetime production from each sow. And they are
looking at ways of inducing puberty as early as possible as well as ways to increase the
number of ova (eggs) that are shed during the firs^ estrus. They are also evaluating feeding
practices that are likely to encourage and maintain high productivity, and collecting informa-
tion on which to base culling decisions.

The test animals in this research ar ! fed a normal or an enriched diet and bred
during their first estrus, and their performance . compared with that of a control group that
is fed the normal ration and bred during the third estrus.

- (cont'd) -

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Swine Breeding Research (cont'd)

Research has apparently shown that the number of ova shed can be increased by
enriching a gilt's diet, and that puberty can be brought on by exposing it to a boar.

Dr. Blair, reports that researchers ere questioning two commonly held opinions.
One is that a gilt should be culled if she produces a small first litter and the other is that a gilt
produces a small litter because her uterus is immature. It now appears that the size of a gilt's
uterus is not as limiting a factor in litter size .is had been previously thought, and that the
number of piglets in her first litter may not be a good indicator of her future production.

-30

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

YEAR-END PLANNING TO REDUCE THE FARM TAX BITE (PART II)

by Merle Good
Farm Business Management Branch, Alberta Agriculture

Farmers who would like to increase their taxable income so that they can make
full use of their personal exemptions (if they cannot be claimed each year they are lost until
a five-year block average is filed) and their Canada Pension Plan contributions or who would
like to claim previous business losses should consider:

Selling inventory items, postponing paying expenses and deducting less than
the maximum allowable capital cost allowance.

. Using the livestock inventory provision to artificially increase their income.
A farmer who has livestock can add to his current year's income any amount up to the fair
market value of the livestock. However, he must deduct the amount that he adds in one
year from his income in the following year. (See "Tax and the Livestock Inventory Provi-
sion" — FS 837-9, available from district agriculturists).

. Withdrawing all or part of their registered retirement savings plan before the
end of the year. A withholding tax will have to be paid when the withdrawal takes place, but
it will be credited to the income tax that is payable in that year.

Cashing grain tickets, taking cash advances or selling assets that trigger capital
gains. These strategies will bring more income into the present tax year and will facilitate
a reduction of debts and interest costs without incurring a corresponding tax liability.

Using the block averaging provision. It may result in a refund of taxes that
were paid in one or more of the past five or six years. However, the quirk in the rules that
allowed an investment tax credit to be claimed twice when using the block average provision
appears to be in jeopardy if the April 1983 budget is passed.

- (cont'd)

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlborra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Year-End Planning To Reduce The Frrm Tax Bite (Part II) (cont'd)

. Claiming the maximum capital cost allowance deduction in conjunction with
the livestock inventory provision. By claiming the maximum capital cost allowance deduc-
tion, and by artificially adding income through the livestock inventory provision, a livestock
producer can generate a larger deductible expense in a subsequent high income year.

Becoming informed on the proposed amendments that are contained in the
April 1983 budget. One of these would allow losses incurred in 1933 to be carried back
three years and forward 10 years as opposed to back one year and forward five years. In
addition to extending the time limits on losses, the amendment drastically changes the pro-
cedure involved in claiming losses. In the past, a taxpayer could not use his personal exemp-
tions or the interest dividend deduction to reduce his taxab e income until he had used ud all
his losses. Under the proposed amendment he would be allowed to use these exemptions and
the tax-free portion of his income to reduce his taxable income before he had to apply snv
losses against it. This would mean that in some cases a taxpayer would bo in a position to
carry forward some or even all of his losses.

The use of a good set of records and a competent accountant are extremely bene-
ficial when it comes to determining which tax strategies are best suited to an individual farm
business.

-30-

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE AND THE ALBERTA OPTOMETRIC ASSOCIATION

CO-OPERATE IN JOINT PROJECT

Alberta Agriculture and the Alberta Optometric Association have formed a
steering committee to inform the farming community about good eye care and eye safety.

"It is difficult to estimate the number of eye injuries that occur on farms each
year," says the manager of Alberta Agriculture's farm safety program, Solomon Kyereman-
teng, "because only certain selected hospitals in the province report farm accidents. However,
the serious nature of those eye injuries that are reported is reason enough for concern."

Informing the public about desirable eye care habits and the benefits of effective

safety eyewear is a priority of the Alberta Optometric Association. And its director of vision
care plans, R. Glen Campbell, says that because farmers are exposed to such a variety of
environmental and occupational hazards, it is extremely important that they adopt good
eye care and safety habits.

A major priority of the steering committee wi I be to point out the relationship
that exists between good vision and safety. Dr. Don Martin, a member of that committee,
says, "A person who has not had an eye examination foi some time may not see well enough
to do his job properly. The result could be a poor job or a serious accident."

The phrase, "Maybe Your Eyes Were the Problem", will be the theme used by
the committee to stress its points. And Mr. Kyeremanteng says "We want to hear from
farmers and related agricultural groups about their vision and eye safety concerns so that we
can develop a program that will address these concerns."

According to Dr. Martin, local optometrists and steering committee members
will be on hand at regional agricultural meetings to advise farmers on eye care and eye safety
subjects. He says the combined efforts of the^e two groups should be able to reach a large
proportion of the farming community in Alberta.

- 30

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CUSTOM TILLAGE RATES FOP 1983

Custom tillage rates increased and decreased in 1983 compared with those of
1982, depending upon the type of operation anc the region.

The data contained in the following three tables are based on the results of a
survey carried out by Alberta Agriculture in ( ctober, 1983. It has been summarized into
three areas: southern Alberta (the U.S. bordei north to Calgary), central Alberta (Calgary
north to Edmonton) and northern Alberta (Edm >nton north).

Cu tivating (? Per Acre)

Region Most Common 1982 Range 1983 Most Common 1983

South $3.70 $4.50 $3.75 - $4.40 $3.75 - $4.40

Central $2.30 - $4.00 $4.00 - $5.50 $5.00

North $1.05 -$3.50 $3.00 - $3.50

Discing ($ Per Acre)

Region
South
Central
North

Most Common 1982
$7.35 - $8.00
$5.20 - $5.50
$3.75

Range 1983
$3.50 - $6.00
$5.00 - $7.0C
$1.50 - $7.00

Most Common 1983
$3.50 - $6.00
$6.50 - $7.00
$4.50 - $7.00

(cont d]

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

2 -

Custom Tillage Rates For 1983 (cont'd)

Plowing, Harrowin i and Rototilling

Operation

Plowing

Harrowing

Rototilling

South

1982 1983
$17-$20/ac

Central

North

1983

1982

$1 7 $ l9/ac

$1.55-$1.80/ac $1.75/ac $1 . S0-S1 .90/ac $2-$2.50/ac

$35-$130/hr $1 1 5-S1 35/hr

$ 68-$ 86/ac

1983

$8-$12.50/ac

Gerd Andres, custom rates specialist with Alberta Agriculture's farm business
management branch, says detailed information on rates charged by all custom operators in
1983 will be available in a publication entitled "Custom Rates Annual Summary - 1983".
This publication and the spring of 1984 issue of "Farm Machinery Costs As A Guide To
Custom Rates", (designed to help farmers calculate their individual machinery costs) will be
released by the farm business management branch in April, 1984.

In the meantime, further information on 1983 custom rates can be obtained
from district agriculturists, Alberta Agriculture's statistic:, branch in Edmonton (427-4019)
or the farm business management branch in Olds (556-424").

30-

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BREEDER SEED ORDERING TIME

December 31 is the deadline for receipt of applications by the Alberta Stock
Seed Distribution Committee for obtaining seed through the Canadian Seed Growers'
Association (CSGA) Select Plot Program.

This committee is also responsible for granting a probationary status to new
growers. The applicant must apply directly to the committee for this status, and he must
have successfully grown the pedigreed variety of seed for which he is applying during three
of the last five years. If probationary status is granted and the applicant wants a SeCan seed
variety, the Alberta Stock Seed Distribution Committee will notify Secan that he is elible
to receive an allocation of breeder seed. However, since SeCan controls and distributes its
own seed varieties, the applicant must order the seed himself from the Secan Association,
1568 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7M5. This must be done before December 31.

Established select seed growers should apply directly to Secan if they want
SeCan seed, but the Alberta Stock Seed Distribution Committee would appreciate being
notified when such a grower changes his variety.

An established seed grower who wants to change from one variety to another
in the same type of crop can request permission from CSGA in Ottawa to grow a select plot
of both varieties for one season, but the combined area of the two plots must not exceed
one hectare.

The maximum plot size allowed for a probationary select seed grower is half
a hectare (about one acre) and the minimum is a quarter of a hectare (about half an acre).

Application forms for ordering breeder seed and additional information on
the Select Plot Program can be obtained from Bill Witbeck, Secretary, Alberta Stock Seed
Distribution Committee, Bag Service No. 47, Lacombe, Alberta, TOC 1S0. (Telephone:
782-4641).

-30-

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

/dberra

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ANIMAL HEALTH HOMESTUDY COURSE SCHEDULED FOR
RED DEER AND VERM I L.ON

Alberta Agriculture's Animal Health Homestudy Course will be offered this year
to livestock producers and to anyone else in the Red Deer and Vermilion regions of the
province who is interested in animal health.

The lessons, which have been prep ired by the department's animal health division
staff, will be mailed to course participants at weekly intervals, commencing on January 20,
1984. Each student will receive five core lessc ns on basic anatomy and physiology; the causes
and spread of disease; disease prevention and i ontrol; the various types of treatment that are
available for disease; and the role of the fed1 ral and provincial governments in maintaining
the health of the country's livestock population.

The remaining seven lessons are optional in that students can choose two. They
will cover beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, horses, sheep, goats and poultry. Additional species
options can be purchased by any student at the end of the course.

Dr. M. W. Stone, course coordinator, ;ays veterinarians in the Red Deer and
Vermilion regions are being encouraged to arange workshops in cooperation with district
agriculturists to supplement the course material. And a series of regional seminars is planned
on individual animal species so that areas of par icular concern can be covered in greater depth.
Brochures that contain an application form can be obtained from feedmills, veterinary clinics,
auction markets, etc.

Anyone who would like more ir formation on the Animal Health Homestudy
Course should contact his or her district office or Home Study, Communications Division,
Alberta Agriculture, J. G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta,
T6H 5T6.

- 30 -

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

3hone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LIVESTOCK ELECTROCUTION FATALITIES

During the last 10 years there have been 44 recorded cases of livestock being
electrocuted in Alberta.

According to information received by Dr. M.W. Stone of Alberta Agriculture,
most of electrocutions involved cattle. Several of the animals were killed by a 110-volt
electrical charge when a piece of equipment, such as a barn cleaner, milking machine or
squeeze chute, became energized.

In other cases the cattle were electrocuted as a result of improperly wired water-
ing bowls, energized stanchions or lightning striking a power pole or an electric fence. Fatal-
ities were also reported as a result of cattle having come close to or in direct contact with
downed powerlines.

Similar electrical accidents were reported for swine during the same period. The
most dramatic of these was the electrocution of 148 pigs when the metal sheeting on a build-
ing accidentally became energized from temporary 1 10-volt wiring.

The few losses in horses were due to lightning striking powerlines or to energized
watering troughs.

There was one very dramatic loss in turkeys during the 10-year period. It involved
4,000 birds and was caused by a power failure and the subsequent loss of ventilation in the
turkey house.

30 -

/dlberta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DISTRICT HOME ECONOMIST APPOINTED
AT GRANDE PRAIRIE

The head of Alberta Agriculture's home economics branch, Shirley
Myers, has announced the appointment of Ncrma Edwards to the position of
district home economist at Grande Prairie.

Ms. Edwards was born in Killam and grew up in Strathmore. She
obtained her B.Sc. (home economics) from the University of Alberta in 1982,
having majored in family studies. She joined Alberta Agriculture the following
September and took her district home economist training at Camrose where she
remained for 15 months.

In the summer of 19151, she worked as a summer assistant to the
district home economist at Warner

- 30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

CANADIANS

C f

December 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Game Farming In Alberta 1

Alberta Agriculture's Printed Material To Include Hectares And Acres. . . 4

Red Deer Area Firms Receive Nutritive Processing Financial Assistance 5

Alberta Treasury Checking Farmer Declaration Forms , . .7

Year-End Planning To Reduce Tne Farm Tax Bite (Part III) 8

News From Lambco 11

Turkey Outlook 13

Choosing And Cooking A Christmas Turkey 14

Associate Trade Director Appointed 16

Regional Dairv Specialist Appoimed To Grande Prairie 17

Family Management Specialist Appointed 18

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GAME FARMING IN ALBERTA

A young moose which is being raised in captivity.

Surveys carried out by the University of Alberta indicate that there is good
public support for a revision to The Wildlife Act, scheduled for the spring session of the
Alberta Legislature, that will legalize the commercial production of game animals. However,
opposition to this practice has been expressed by some naturalists and sportsmen.

Dr. Robert Hudson, associate professor of wildlife productivity and management
at the university, says the opposition stems mainly from an incomplete understanding of
what game farming is and what it can offer. He points out that commercial game production
involves the use of the province's wildlife resources in a way that will benefit farmers, native
people and all Albertans.

Concern has been expressed by some that game farming will spell the end of the
wilderness in Alberta. "It is true", says Dr. Hudson, "that predators, like the timber wolf,

- (cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2-

Game Farming In Alberta (cont'd)

will have to be controlled, that some forage production and winter feeding will have to be
provided and that access to public big game huntinc will have 10 be controlled. For this
reason I believe that game farming should be carried out on Indian and Metis land, where
oublic access is already limited, and on private and where present agricultural practices have
left little wildlife habitat".

He goes on to point out that it is also true that many of the white-tailed deer that
are harvested in Alberta each year come from private land, but that it is only sound manage-
ment tc have non-hunted refuges scattered thro jgh out the agricultural area to serve as a re-
stocking reservoir for such animals. Both moose and deer are able to move freely over and
under conventional game fences. And Dr. Hudson claims that if game farmers were permitted
to raise wapiti, this species would again be seen in areas of the province where they have not
been seen for more than one hundred years. He also points out that the resultant increase in
pasture land from the commercial raising of game animals would mean a better quality of
habitat for other wildlife species .than is provided by cultivated fields.

Another concern expressed by both wildlife managers and sportsmen is that the
commercial production of game animals could had to widespread illegal dealings in wildlife
products. Dr. Hudson says it must be recognize d that the economic motive for such dealings
already exists and will continue to exist regardless of whether or not a commercial game
production industry is developed. Because a leg supply of wildlife products would stabilize
prices, it should actually go a long way, in Dr. Hudson's opinion, towards reducing the incen-
tive to deal in illegal products.

Then there are those who would argjethat illegal products could be "laundered"
through a formal marketing system. However, Dr. Hudson thinks this would be unlikely,
at least in the case of venison, even under exist ng controls. He points out that the federal

- (cont'd) -

-3

Game Farming In Alberta ( cont'd)

government's meat inspection regulations require the t all animals must be inspected before
they are slaughtered, ahd that problems that could a'ise from the illegal sale of antlers, for
example, and breeding stock, could be avoided by well designed legislation.

Still another misconception that is held bv some is that land which is suitable for
the commercial production of game animals presently supports a high wildlife population.
Although game farming may be viable on marginal lends, which presently provide the least
disturbed wildlife habitat, the best areas for this type of farming are those that are classified
as good agricultural land. Hence, most game farms will be established in these areas.

-30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

>dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA AGRICULTURE'S PRINTED MATERIAL TO
INCLUDE HECTARES AND ACRES

LeRoy Fjordbotten, Alberta's minister of agriculture, is pleased to announce that,
effective immediately, all agricultural publications and material printed by the department
will include both hectare and acre land measurements, where applicable.

"Making mistakes can be costly for producers, especially when converting expen-
sive chemicals and fertilizers for proper acre applications," said Mr. Fjordbotten. "I wart to
make sure that farmers have every advantage to ensure they are maximizing their returns."

The use of hectare and acrs measurements in agricultural publications follows a
government decision that all departments and agencies of the government of Alberta, which
have moved to the use of the hectare as a unit of measurement, be required to provide the
equivalent land area information in both metric and imperial units.

The only exemptions from this policy will be the Energy Resources Conservation
Board and specific areas of the Department of Energy and Natural Resources which pertain
to their responsibilities and interactions with the oil and gas industry.

Mr. Fjordbotten said "The identific. tion of both acre and hectare measurements
will allow farmers to make better management lecisions. Farms were developed on an acre
basis and farmers can relate to acres better than hectares."

Alberta Agriculture will be providing acre— hectare equivalents in all future publi-
cations, fact sheets and related information available to Alberta producers.

-30-

alberta

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 5, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RED DEER AREA FIRMS RECEIVE NUTRITIVE
PROCESSING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Five firms in the Red Deer area will receive a total of $402,216 in financial assis-
tance under the Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance Agreement.

Feed-Rite Alberta Ltd wi I receive $271,597 to construct a feedmill at Linden.
The new facility will produce a comp ete line o: livestock and poultry feeds as well as handle
premixes, animal health products, dc j food, insecticides and some lines of poultry feeding
equipment. Its cost is estimated at $1 5 million ind it is expected to create 16 jobs.

V-S Feed and Agri Supp ies Ltd will receive $51,446 to establish a plant in
Ponoka. It will produce ground feed ^uppleme its and mineral and vitamin mixes as well as
carrying a complete line of farm and /eterinary supplies. The facility's cost is estimated at
$224,000 and it is expected to create 0 jobs.

Central Alberta Dairy Poo and FaLh Farms Ltd will receive $48,468 to expand
and modernize their plant in Red Deer. The pkmt currently produces and packages a full line
of dairy products, including cheddar and cottage cheese, yogurt and sour creem. The cost of
the renovations is estimated at $256,000 and 17 people ate expected to be employed by the
third year of operation.

Olds Meat Packers Ltd and Olds Mt at Packers (Central) Ltd will receive $19,650
to expand and modernize its plant in Olds. Tl e money will be used to upgrade its abattoir
and to add a sausage kitchen to its present facilities. The cost of the renovations is estimated
at $98,000 and it is expected that one addition? I job will be created.

J & R Meats will receive $11,055 to establish an operation in Alliance. It will
provide fresh meat and other products to the town and the surrounding area. The cost of
the facility is estimated at approximately $34,000 and two jobs will be created.

(cont d)

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Red Deer Area Firms Receive Nutritive Processing Financial Assistance (cont'd)

An extension of the Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance Agteement,
which is equally and jointly administered by the two levels of government, was signed
recently. It will allow applicants to apply for financial assistance until September 30, 1984.

Further information can be obtained from Dr. Jim Wiebe, Alberta Agriculture
at 427-4287.

-30-

December 12, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ALBERTA TREASURY CHECKING FARMER
DECLARATION FORMS

Alberta farmers should be aware that Alberta Treasury is checking the registra-
tions of vehicles that are classified for farm use (F plates) against the farmer declaration
forms that it has on file.

John Chang, energy engineer with Alberta Agriculture, explains that owners of
vehicles that are classified for farm use with the motor vehicles branch are entitled to use
purple fuel under the Alberta Farm Fuel Distribution Allowance Program, providing that
they are actively engaged in farming and that they have filed a farmer declaration form
with their bulk fuel dealer.

It appears that there are a consider jble number of people whose vehicles have
been registered for farm use, but who have not filed a farmer declaration form. This means
that if they are using purple fuel, they are doing so illegally.

Alberta Treasury is now contacting people whose vehicles have been registered for
farm use, but who have not filed a farmer declaration form with their bulk fuel dealer.

Mr. Chang believes some of the disci epancy in the number of vehicles registered
for farm use and the number of farmer declaration forms that have been filed could have
been caused by farmers having retired, havimi gone out of business or having sold their
vehicles to non-farmers.

-30

hone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

December 12, 1983 y
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

YEAR-END PLANNING TO REDUCE THE FARM TAX BITE (PART III)

by Merle Good
Farm Business Management Branch, Alberta Agriculture

Farmers who have had a good year and are in the happy position of wanting to
reduce their taxable income should consider the various strategies that can be used for this
purpose. But they should remember that their objective should always be to maximize their
profits; not to minimize their taxes!

Following is a list of the strategies:

Purchasing supplies at the end of the tax year. Even with high interest rates,
it may pay to borrow additional fundi to take advantage of significant tax deductions, early
purchase discounts, etc.

. Using deferred grain t ckets to reduce income and increase expenses. This
strategy entails endorsing the tickets and giving them to the dealer as a type of post-dated
cheque. The result is a deductible expense in the current tax year and the deferral of income
until the following year when the deal< r cashes the tickets.

Paying spouse and children a salary for their work. An additional benefit of
this strategy is that the spouse will then be eligible for the Canadian Pension Plan and able to
contribute to her own registered retirement savings plan. A salary of about $6,756 will not
attract a tax liability for the current taxation year, and the net effect of claiming this ex-
pense, as opposed to using the spousal marriage deduction, will be a tax saving of $915.

Buying new machinery when it is needed before the end of the year to take
advantage of the capital cost write-off and the investment tax credit on new purchases. How-
ever, this strategy is not as profitable as it used to be because the purchaser can now claim

only one half of his normal capital cost allowance in the year in which the piece of equip-
ment was purchased.

>dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- (cont'd) -

hone: (403)427-2121

- 2

Year-End Planning To Reduce The Farm Tax Bile (Part III) (cont'd)

Forming a holding company if the farm is incorporated and its fiscal year ends
before December 30. The formation of a holding company will allow the corporation to
declare dividends on income earned prior to 1933 without triggering the new 12.5 per cent
dividend distribution tax. Depending upon th >i size of the corporation's retained earnings,
the merits of this strategy could be well worth discussing wilh an accountant.

Contributing to a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP). This strategy
could be especially beneficial if more than $1 ,000 of interest is being earned from income or
dividends. Contributions are deductible and there are no restrictions on withdrawing the
money except for a small withholding tax.

Loaning funds to spouse and children on an interest-free demand ncte and
having them invest the money so that each earns up to $1,000 of interest income per year.
Since this aspect of the loan will override the income attribution rules, it will allow the inter-
est to be taxed in the hands of the recipients.

. Using cash to retire any personal loans, and, if necessary, re-borrowing the
funds under a business loan. Interest on the naw loan will be deductible because it will be
used for business purposes. And the net effect will be an exchange of a non-deductible inter-
est loan for a deductible interest loan.

Asking machinery manufacturers to send rebate cheques directly to you; not
to the dealer. A recent court case indicates th£ t rebates that come directly from a manufac-
turer to the purchaser are tax-free. This means that the purchaser can claim the investment
from credit and the capital cost allowance on the full purchase price of the piece of equip-
ment, as opposed to only on the price that was paid after the rebate had been deducted.

Finally, make sure that you are informed on the proposed amendments that are
contained in the April 1983 federal budget. A though these amendments have not yet been

- (cont'd) -

-3-

Year-End Planning To Reduce The Farm Tax Bite (Part III) (cont'd)

passed into law a number of them are very important. One concerns the use of the invest-
ment tax credit. When the amendment is passed, it will allow credits earned in 1983 to be
carried back two years and forward seven years. And in 1984, the carry-back period will be
extended to three years. Also, a 40 per cent special refundable tax credit will be available
from Revenue Canada on investments that were purchased between April 15, 1983 and
May 1, 1986.

In view of the complexities of the present taxation system, the knowleage and
advice of a competent accountant is almost a necessity today.

-30 -

Phone: (403)427-2121

Aha\Q

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 12, 983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEWS FROM LAMBCO

by Ruth Salmon
Meat and Dairy Consultant, Alberta Agriculture

As the only lamb processing plant in Western Canada, Lambco plays an important
role in the operations of all Alberta sheep producers.

Lambco recently announced the appointment of James W. Coutts to the newly
created position of general sales manager. Having spent many years with a major Canadian
packer, Mr. Coutts has considerable experience in the meat industry. This experience will
enable him to work closely with the retail and wholesale trade to maintain the existing
market and to seek new market opportunities.
Packaging Equipment Purchase

Lambco is currently preparing to install a "Cryovac" packaging system. It will
not only give Lambco products a neater, more attractive appearance, but it will also signifi-
cantly increase their shelf life. And with the now equipment, the plant's capacity to further
process lamb cuts into boxed form will be grea ly increased. The increased processing capa-
city, plus the superior quality of the new packaged cuts, will give the plant the flexibility to
enter new markets. Retail operations, not equipped to handle whole carcasses, will now have
the opportunity to carry the Lambco product.
Market News

Slaughter levels at Lambco are up b\ 25 per cent over last year. In fact, during
one week in Cctcber, the plant slaughtered more than 3,000 lambs - an all time record!

- (conf I) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403)427-2121

Print Media Branch

News -rom Lambco (cont'd)

This year's peak killing period at the plant occurred between late May and early
August. Interestingly, this period was both shorter and earlier than in past years. Associated
with this peak killing period, lamb prices reached their lowest point in early August. How-
ever, an upward trend in prices can now be expected into the first quarter of 1984.

-30-

December 12. 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TURKEY OUTLOOK

The general outlook for the Canadian turkey industry for 1984 is good and prices
are expected to remain profitable.

David Hope of Alberta Agriculture's market analysis branch expects Candian
stacks of frozen turkey to be below 10 million kg on January 1 , 1984, which would be a con-
siderable imorovement over what they have been in recent years.

He says Canadian disappearance of turkey meat during the first 10 months of
1983 is estimated at 67.8 million kg or up by 6.4 per cent from a year earlier. Turkey con-
sumption this Christmas is expected to be equal to or slightly highe r than it was last year.

Canadian turkey production during the first 10 months of this year totalled 79.6
million kg or one per cent above what it was du» ing the same period in 1982. And Canadian
^old storage turkey stocks on November 1 of thi . year totalled 26 million kg or 10.3 per cent
below what they were in 1982.

Mr. Hope reports that Alberta turk :y production during the same 10 months
totalled 6.5 million kg, which represented a A.', per cent increase from the same period in
1982. He also says that the apparent consumpt on of turkey was 5.4 million kg or 2.9 per
cent below what it was a year earlier.

The Canadian Turkey Marketing Agency (CTMA) has allocated 89.1 million kg
of global quota for 1984, which is a reduction of 4.6 per cent compared with this year's
quota. Mr. Hope expects that the global quota for turkey will be reviewed early next year
and that a favorable stock level could result in an upward revision.

The above a~tic!e is based on information that was available in November, 1983.

- 30-

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHOOSING AND COOKING A CHRISTMAS TURKEY

by Linda St. Onge
Food and Nutrition Specia'ist, Alberta Agriculture

With Christmas rapidly approachii g, there is one thing that Albertans can be
happy about. It is the bargain prices that still exist for poultry.

Choosing a turkey takes a little planning. You should allow approximately 0.2
to 0.3 kg (1/2 to 3/4 of a pound) per person. Hence, if you are planning to have 12 people
for Christmas dinner, you should choose a bird that weighs from 2.7 to 4 kg. For 20 people
you will need a bird that weighs from 4.5 to 6 8 kg. However, if you want to freeze some of
the turkey to enjoy later, you will need a larger bird.

All Canada Grade A turkeys sho Jld have an excellent appearance. In other
words, there should be no large tears in the skin 2nd there should be no pieces missing.
Turkeys are often packed with "optional extr as" like butter-basting and a pop-up indicator
that shows when the bird is cooked. Remember, though, these "optional extras" add to the
cost of the bird, and that you can achieve the same results by basting the turkey while it is
cooking and using a meat thermometer.

Utility Grade birds are usually just as tender as a Canada Grade A bird, but
they will have a tear in the skin, a crooked breastbone or a piece missing. And they usually
cost a few cents per kilogram less than a grade / bird.

If you buy a fresh turkey, you should not buy it more than two or three days
before you intend to cook it, and you should keep it in the refrigerator. On the other hand,
a frozen turkey can be kept for up to 12 months at a temperature of -18° C. It is best to
thaw it in its wrapping in the refrigerator You should allow a thawing time of 10 hours per
kilogram, which means that a 5-kg turkey would take two days to thaw while a 10-kg bird
would take four days.

- (cont'd) -

Phone: (403)427-2121

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Choosing and Cooking a Christmas Turkey (coni 'd)

Turkeys and other poultry can b ; thawed at room temperature if there is no
space in the refrigerator, but they should be refrigerated or cooked as soon as they have
thawed. When thawing a turkey at room temperature, allow three hours per kilogram. If
you leave it in its plastic wrap and then wrap it in newspaper and put it into a paper bag, it
will thaw more evenly, but it will take a little longer.

Before roasting your turkey, brush its surface with melted fat, place it in a
shallow roasting pan and cover it loosely with tin foil to prevent it from becoming too brown.
Then insert a meat thermometer through the stuffing and cook the turkey until the tem-
perature registers about 70° C. This will take about four and a half hours for a 5-Kg turkey
and about six hours for a 10-Kg turkey.

To be on the safe side, rerr ove th>; stuffing as soon as the bird is cooked, and
remove any left over meat from the carcass as soon as the meal is over. Wrap it in tin foil or
plastic wrap and put it in the refrigerator or fieezer. It will keep for three or four days in
the refrigerator and for up to about three months in the freezer.

-30 •

December 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ASSOCIATE TRADE DIRECTOR APPOINTED

David C. Rous, Alberta Agriculture's Trade Director for Canada/U.S.A., has
announced the appointment of Doug Bienert to the position of associate trade director. He
replaces Lee Harris who retired at the end of September.

As associate trade director, Mr. Bienert will work closely with Mr. Rous in
developing market opportunities for Alberta's agricultural commodities, processed food
products and technical services in the central Canada/U.S. markets.

He was born and raised in the Leduc area and attended California Polytechnic
State University in California, U.S.A., where he obtained his B.Sc. and M.Sc. in agriculture in
1967 and 1973 respectively.

Mr. Bienert has spent the past several years with Alberta Agriculture, most re-
cently as supervisor of 4-H field services. He has worked for the Canada Livestock Import
Export Co. and has been very active as secretary of the Alberta branch of the Holstein
Association of Canada.

Mr. Bienert, who has a broad knowledge of the livestock industry, has parti-
cipated in several foreign missions, including the Vladison and Guadalajara international live-
stock shows. As a result of his 4-H work, he is A/ell acquainted with the promotional work
that is required to assist Alberta producers.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

December 12, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

REGIONAL DAIRY SPECIALIST APPOINTED
TO GRANDE PRAIRIE

The head of Alberta Agriculture's dairy processing branch, Ken Waldon,
has announced the appointment of Robert Pulyk to the position of regional dairy
specialist at Grande Prairie.

Mr. Pulyk was raised and educated in the Sarnia area of Ontario and
attended the University of Guelph, where he majored in dairy science. Following
graduation he was employed as assistant production supervisor by Clark's Dairy in
Ottawa.

When Clark's Dairy was purchased by Wm. Neilson Company Ltd., a
well-known manufacturer of ice cream and chocolate products, Mr. Pulyk was
transferred to the company's Toronto operation as a product development engi-
neer. He was superintendent of finished products quality control prior to joining
Alberta Agriculture.

Mr. Pulyk and his wife will be living in Grande Prairie.

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 12, 1983 18
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FAMILY MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST APPOINTED

The head of Alberta Agriculture's home economics branch, Shirley Myers, has
announced the appointment of Karin Hoist to the position of family management specialist.

Ms. Hoist will be located in Fairview and will be responsible for developing and
providing information on time management, budgeting, finances and home and farm record
keeping systems to farm families. And she will be helping the district home economists in the
department's two northern regions to develop programs in these areas.

Ms. Hoist comes from the Peace Riv< r region and grew up on a certified seed farm
northwest of Fairview. After attending the Hines Creek High School she attended the Univer-
sity of Alberta, graduating in 1975 with a B.Sc. (home economics). She majored in foods and
nutrition.

Following graduation she went to Papua New Guinea for three years under the
auspices of CUSO. While there she developed nutritional programs in the rural highlands.
After returning home she worked as a home management educator in Frobisher Bay and then
as a homemaker coordinator in the Wildwood area of Alberta.

For the past three years Ms. Hoist has been district home economist at Three Hills
where she has concentrated on strength3ning the knowledge and skills of rural women in the
overall farming operation.

-30

Liberia

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

FEB~1 5 1984

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Promising New Hornfly Control Products Tested 1

Choosing The Right Trace Mineral Salt 3

The Savory Grazing Method 5

Research Into A Serious Swine Disease 8

Pesticide Breakdown By Soil Organisms 10

Take-All Root Rot In Wheat 12

Taxation Considerations When Relocating A Farm Business 13

Farm Computer Home Stuc y Course 15

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 19, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PROMISING NEW HORNFLY CONTRC L PRODUCTS TESTED

Some of the new hornfly control products and devices that were tested in field
trials last summer by the Alberta Environmental Centre's entomology section staff proved to
be very effective and efficient in controlling these insects on ange cattle.

According to the centre's livestock entomologist, Hugh Philip, the trials were
part of an ongoing program that is designed to evaluate new products and devices and to
disseminate the information to farmers. He says last summer's trials were carried out in
cooperation with cattlemen near Innisfree, Provost and Czar.

The trial that involved self-treatment backrubbers, which had been charged
with the insecticide fenvaleraie, provided excellent hornfly control for the whole grazing
season, according to Mr. Philli ). He says one backrubber was located in a strategic position
in each of six pastures, which each contained 65 to 189 head of either yearlings or cows
and calves, and that the control was excellent in all the pastures.

Other trials involved the use of experimental tags which had been impregnated
with an insecticide and attached to the ear, tail or an identification eartag on the cattle.
One set of the tags had been impregnated with oypermethrin and the other with permethrin.
Both sets gave season-long hornfly control when they wore attached to one ear of each
animal in the pasture.

The two experimental devices that were tested last summer had both been
impregnated with permethrin. One was a bandaid-like tape that was attached to the "neck"
of the identification tags on the cattle, while tie other was a plastic strip, resembling a 15
cm ruler, that was attached to the identification tags with a plastic cord. Mr. Philip reports
that both devices gave excelle it hornfly contn I throughout the season, but that only the
tape-type gave satisfactory control whri the de ices were attached to the tails of the cattle,
just above the switch.

- (cont'd) -

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

ydlbcrra

Promising New Hornfly Control Products Tested (cont'd)

The data that have been obtained from the above trials will now be submitted to
Agriculture Canada officials who will review it as part of the registration process for new
insecticides, use patterns and application devices. Mr. Philip points out that the trials have
also provided invaluable information on the way the insecticides and devices perform under
Alberta conditions and under the cattle management systems that are used here. "This
means", says Mr. Philip, "that Alberta cattlemen will be able to use them, when they become
available, with the assurance that they will perform as stated on the product labels, providing
they followed the directions properly."

- 30 -

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TRACE MINERAL SALT

Although feeding a trace- mineralized salt is a common and a relatively easy way
of supplementing copper and zinc in beef cattle rations, it is very important to remember that
ali trace mineral salts do not contain the same amounts of hese nutrients, and that some do
not supply enough of them when consumed by cattle at the normal level.

The head of Alberta Agriculture's animal nutr tion section, Ron Weisenburger,
reports that more than 80 per cent of the farm-grown feed; that are analyzed at the Agricul-
tural Soil and Feed Testing Laboratory in Edmonton for iheir copper and zinc content are
found to be either borderline or deficient in these nutrients from the point of view of beef
cattle needs.

He points out that several of the "old style" trice mineral salt products that are
still on the market in Alberta contain only 0.01 to 0.04 per cent copper and only about 0.4
per cent zinc compared with 0.25 per cent copper and 0.75 per cent zinc for the "new style"
products.

The following table shows the daily requirements for copper and zinc of a beef
animal that is eating 10 kg (22 lbs) of dry matter per day; the amount of copper and zinc
provided by 30g (about one oz) of the "old style" trace mineral salt products, and the
amount provided by 30g of the "new style" trace mineral salt products.

Daily Amount Supplied by 30g of
Requirement "Old Style" Salt "New Style" Salt

Copper 100 mg 3-12 mg 75 mg

Zinc 400-500 mg 120mg 225 mg

Since 10 kg of dry matter from farm-grown feeds typically provide about 50 mg
of copper and 250 mg of zinc, it is obvious from the above table that 30g of the "old style"

(cont'd!

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Choosing The Right Trace Mineral Salt (cont'd)

mineral salt products do not provide enough additional copper and zinc to meet the require-
ments of beef cattle.

According to Mr. Weisenburger, the general rule is that a salt which contains at
least 0.25 per cent copper, 0.75 per cent zinc and normal levels of both cobalt and iodine,
and which is consumed at a level of at least 0.3 per cent of the total dry matter intake, is
needed to meet the requirements of beef cattle for these nutrients.

He reports that the "new style" trace mineral salt products are being marketed in
Alberta at the present time with and without added selenium. And he says the choice of
which type to use will depend upon whether or not selenium deficiency is a problem. He
also says that the prolonged use of trace mineral salt products that have been medicated with
EDDI (organic iodine) is not recommended because it could lead to chronic iodine toxicity,
and that cobalt-iodized (blue) salt should only be used when copper and zinc are being ade-
quately supplemented by other means or when the feed is known to contain adequate levels
of these nutrients.

Finally, Mr. Weisenburger emphasizes that the amount of copper that is provided
by a trace mineral salt that contains 0.25 per cent copper can be toxic to sheep.

-30-

December 19. 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE SAVORY GRAZING METHOD

At the present time there are three or four Savory Grazing Method ranching
schemes being used or developed in Alberta from Chin Coulee in the south to Buck Lake in
the central part of the province.

The Savory Grazing Method is a high intensity, short duration grazing manage-
ment technique, which is usually associated with a grazing cell where the water and animal
handling facilities are located at the hub of from five to 42 pie-shaped pastures.

According to Alberta Agriculture's supervisor of range management, Bob Wroe,
the Savory Grazing Method, which is being promoted by Savory and Parson Ranch Consul-
tants of New Mexico, was developed by Alan Savory. Mr. Wroe says a number of Albertans
attended the Savory School in New Mexico and set up a cell on their ranches when they
returned.

The Savory Grazing Method involves the following four principles.

The first principle is that the grazing periods are interspersed with rest periods.
To reduce the stress that grazing animals put on forage plants, each grazing period should be
short enough to prevent the regrazing of individual plants. The ideal is a grazing period of
one to three davs which is followed by a rest period of from 30 to 60 days. However,
Mr. Wroe reports that research carried out at tie federal research station at Manyberries has
shown that rotational grazing has a detrimental offect on individual animal gains.

The second principle is to use a maximum herd size and a maximum stocking
density for a minimum time. Savory claims that the action of the hooves of a large herd of
cattle breaks the crust on the soil's surface and works the litter into the soil, which improves
water penetration and seed germination.

(cont'd)

>dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

(403)427-2121 Print Media Branch

- 2 -

The Savory Grazing Method (cont'd)

Mr. Wroe says, although research carried out in Alberta has never really invest-
igated this theory, the action of animals' hooves on pastures has usually been considered to
be detrimental to the soil from the points of view of compaction and erosion. However, a
large herd of cattle that is allowed to graze on a particular area for a short period encourages
the uniform use of the pasture and a more uniform fertilization effect from the manure. On
the other hand, moving the stock frequently to fresh forage is believed to reduce the deleter-
ious effect of manure fouling.

The third principle is that grazing periods must be as short as possible during the
time that the plants are growing. The theory here is that excessive leaf area reduction, assoc-
iated with overgrazing, will be avoided.

The fourth principle is that the Savory Grazing Method can be continually devel-
oped. Unlike many grazing systems that require a given set of pastures and a predetermined
stocking rate, it makes it possible to start at an unsophisticated level and to develop the
system as grazing conditions and finances permit. In other words, there is no minimum or
maximum number of fields required and no optimum size of field. More pastures are added
as grazing requirements and finances dictate.

The statement has been made that the Savory Grazing Method often makes it
possible to double stocking numbers. However, as Mr. Wroe points out, whether or not a
person is able to double his stc eking numbers depends upon where he starts out from." It is
quite conceivable," he says, "to double stocking numbers if range or pasture conditions are
improved and if the grazing distribution is improved."

He also points out that Savory's emphasis is on animal production per acre, rather
than on average daily gain per animal per season, and that Alberta-based grazing studies
indicate that overgrazing pays in the short term.

- (cont'd) -

- 3-

The Savory Grazing Method (cont'd)

Alberta Agriculture staff are monitoring two Savory Grazing Method projects
that are being carried out under the Farming for the Future Program. "We hope," says
Mr. Wroe, " to have an evaluation of this method under Alberta conditions within the next
few years. We do not have enough information at this time to either recommend or not
recommend the Savory Grazini Method to Alberta ranchers."

-30-

Phone: (403)427-2121

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Print Media Branch

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RESEARCH INTO A SERIOUS SWINE DISEASE

Have you heard of Hemophilus pneumonia in hogs? It is a bacterial infection that
some hog producers in the midwestern United States are calling their most serious disease.

It can range from a mild infection where there are no symptoms, apart from a
depressed growth rate, to a raging pneumonia that can kill overnight. In one case that was
recorded in Saskatchewan two years ago, 40 pigs died in three days. It seems that the inci-
dence of this disease is increasing in C.mada as closely confined quarters and large-scale pro-
duction units become the norm for the swine industry.

Alberta Agriculture's Farming for the Future Program has contributed $101,000
to a research project on hemophilus that is being conducted by Dr. Philip Wilson of the
Veterinary Infectious Disease Organization in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and by Dr. Dudley
Osborn of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, also in Saskatoon.

They are presently working on a vaccine that would prevent lung damage and
death. The two commercial vaccines that they have tested are apparently unable to prevent
the chronic form of the disease. The scientists are also investigating the possibility of using
antibiotics to prevent and to treat acute cases of hemophilus as well as to reduce economic
losses in chronically infected herds.

They have already tested a number of vaccines that they have developed from
bacterial extracts, and they have found two that provide good protection. However, they are
still looking for a better adjuvant (tne substance that the bacterial extract is mixed with to
produce an injectible vaccine). The scientists have also found that an outbreak of hemophilus
can be stemmed by giving the healthy pigs in the herd a dose of a long-acting injectible oxy-
tetracycline. And they have found that acutely ill pigs can be saved with an antibiotic injec-
tion, providing that they are treated in time.

(cont'd]

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

(403)427-2121 Print Media Branch

Research Into A Serious Swine Disease (cont'd)

This year they began exploring the role that environmental stress, especially that
involved in transportation and temperature extremes, plays in precipitating hemophilus.
They are also nvolved in developing a practical blood test to diagnose the infection in com-
mercial swine herds. Although they have developed a test which they have successfully used
in their own experimental herd, they still have to try it in commercial herds where diagnosing
hemophilus is more difficult because of the presence of a larger variety of organisms.

-30-

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PESTICIDE BREAKDOWN BY SOI L ORGANISMS

by Dr. U If Soehngen
Alberta Horticultural Research Center, Brooks

Often when a pesticide fails to control a pest, the immediate assumption is that
the pest has developed a resistance to the chemical, but this assumption may not be correct.

There are bacteria and fungi that are capable of deriving energy from the
degradation of certain pesticides in some soils, and repeated applications of the pesticide
actually enable these microorganisms to multiply very rapidly. This, in turn, accelerates
the rate at which the pesticide breaks down. For example, when Furadan is applied repeatedly
to certain fields, it has been found that it breaks down into non-toxic products in as little as
30 days. And similar reports on the behaviour of the herbicide Eradicane and the organo-
phosphate insecticide Diasinon have been received from various places in the world.

Although not enough is known at this time about this phenomenon to predict the
type of soil in which it is likely to occur, there seems to be some relationship between chemi-
cal breakdown and soil pH. A" a pH level that is lower than 6, for example, the problem does
not seem to occur. In practical terms this neans that a person whose soil has a pH of 7 or
higher may be getting an unexpectedly rapid pesticide breakdown and hence poor pest control.

According to the Illinois Natural History Survey, and according to Allan Felstool,
who is an agricultural economist at the University of Illinois, chemical extenders, controlled
release pesticide formulations and the rotation of certain classes of chemicals may all be
helpful in combating the problem. In laboratory experiments, chemical extenders have been
shown to keep pesticides in the soil longer, slow release formulations make the pesticide
available over a longer period and the rotation of chemical classes reduces the rate at which the
microorganisms build up and pesticide degradation takes place. The stricter timing of pesticide
applications may also be helpful from the point of view of correlating the application of the
pesticide with the occurence of the pest.

- (cont'd) -

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

(403) 427-21 21 Prmt Media Branch

-2-

1 1

Pesticide Breakdown by Soil Organisms (cont'd )

However, in the final analysis, the problems that are associated with the break-
down of pesticides by soil organisms will only be solved when scientists discover the specific
microorganism or the enzyme systems that are responsible *or the phenomenon and when they
learn how to inhibit those organisms.

-30-

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAKE-ALL ROOT ROT IN WHEAT

Take-all root rot has been more prevalent than usual in wheat crops in southern
Alberta this season.

Dr. Ron Howard, plant pathologist with the Alberta Horticultural Research
Center in Brooks, says take-all, which is caused by a soil-borne fungus, is considered to be a
major problem in temperate climates where wheat and grass culture are intensive. He also
says yield losses of as high as 50 per cent have been attributed to this disease.

Take-all symptoms are most noticeable on wheat plants grown in moist soil and
just before they head out. Plants that are infected tend to be stunted and to be somewhat

yellow. They have few tillers, ripen prematurely and their heads are bleached (white heads)
and sterile. Dr. Howard says he white heads caused by hail and the wheat stem maggot are
sometimes confused with thos: caused by take-all. When infected plants are pulled up, their
lower stems and roots will generally be found to have t een blackened by fungus growth.

Take-all likes an alkaline, compact, poorly drained and infertile (especially nitro-
gen and phosphorous-deficient) soil. And, like many other soil-borne diseases, it increases
in severity during the initial three to six years of continuous wheat cropping.

The control of take-all is not easy because there are no wheat varieties that are
highly resistant to it. Dr. Howard recommends rotating wheat crops with non-susceptible
crops like oats, barley, corn, oilseeds or legumes. He says applications of lime and applica-
tions of nitrate fertilizers generally increase the buildup of take-all. However, ammoniacal
and the slower-release forms of nitrogen are less favoiable. And spring applications of nitro-
gen are normally less favorable than fall applications. Dr. Howard also recommends providing
an adequate level of phosphorous to promote good root growth in wheat crops.

-30-

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE

(403)427-2121

Print Media Branch

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAXATION CONSIDERATIONS WHEN RELOCATING A FARM BUSINESS

In view of the taxation implications of relocating a farm business, farmers who
are contemplating such a move should ask themselves the following questions:

. Is the purpose for which I intend to use the replacement
property the same as or similar to, that for which I am using
the present property?

. Am I using my present property to earn income from a business?

. If I dispose of my prese it property, what is the time limit I have
in which to buy a replacement property.

. What is the value or cosi of the replacement property compared
with the one I am thinking of selling?

• Will I be able to defer all or only part of my gain from the sale
of my present property and the purchase of replacement property.

Under the replacement property provision of the federal Income Tax Act, which

came into effect in 1977, a tax-deferred rollover of business assets is allowed if the property is
replaced by similar business assets by the end of the following taxation year.

To qualify for this rollover , the asset must have been a business property immed-
iately before its disposition; the replacement asset must have been purchased before the end of
the first taxation year following the disposition of the original asset; a letter of election (notifi-
cation of intent) must be filed with the vendor's tax return for the year in which the replace-
ment property was acquired; the replacement asset must be used in the same business as the
original asset or in a similar business; and the property must be taxable Canadian property if
the owner is not a Canadian resident.

The same rules apply to property that is expropriated. The owner may defer all or
part of his gain on the disposition of such property, and he may defer all or part of the recapture
of the capital cost allowance. The same rules also apply regarding the purchase of replacement

- (cont'd) -

3hone: (403)427-2121

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

- 2 -

Taxation Considerations When Relocating a Farm Business (cont'd )

property except that a person whose property was expropriated has until the end of the second
taxation year following expropriation in which to purchase replacement property.

More detailed information on the replacement property provision of the federal
Income Tax Act and examples of how it works are contained in a publication entitled "Tax
Consideration When Relocating a Farm Business" (Agdex 837-4). It can be obtained from

district agriculturists and from the Publications Office, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue

Building, 7000-1 1 3 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

-30 -

December 19, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FARM COMPUTER HOME STUDY COURSE

Alberta Agriculture's farm business management branch has developed a home-
study course on farm computers that will be available to farmers anywhere in the province.

Paul Gervais of the farm business management branch says "The course is de-
signed for farmers who are wondering whether they should computerize. If a farmer decides
to buy a computer, the course will provide him with enough background to enable him to
walk into a computer store and to make an informed purchasing decision."

The eight lessons that make up the course will cover the history of computers, the
farm application of computers and the various parts of a computer system. The farm applica-
tion section will provide detailed information on computerized accounting and physical record
keeping systems and on the educational and home uses of farm computers.

The course material will be mailed out by the Rural Education and Development
Association (REDA) in February, 1984. Registration forms can be obtained from Alberta
Agriculture's district offices, the farm business management branch in Olds, and Home Study,
Communications Division, J.G. O'Donc ghue Building, 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta,
T6H 5T6 (Telephone: 422-2896). Brc ;hures and further information are also available from
these sources. The registration form, should be returned to REDA, 14815-119 Avenue,
Edmonton, Alberta, T5L 2N9.

The course will be suppler tented by local seminars and training courses which
involve the actual use of a comouter in those areas of the province where there is a high level
of interest.

The cost of the Farm Computer Home Study Course is $25, but groups of 10 or
more people will be eligible for a 20 per cent discount.

-30-

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403)427-2121

Print Media Branch

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THIS WEEK

Lethbridge Area Firms Receive Financial Assistance 1

1983 Alberta Field Crops Review 3

Hail And Weather Damage To Crops In 1983 4

1983 Alberta Potato Disease Situanon 5

Confectionery Sunflowers 6

Cattle Carcass Bruising 8

Controlling Farm Input Costs 9

Custom Farming Agreement 11

Using Manure As A Fertilizer 13

Should You Buy A Computer? 14

Biological Control Of Insects 15

Questions And Answers 17

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Brancn

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LETHBRIDGE AREA FIRMS RECEIVE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Three Alberta firms, two located in Lethbridge and one near Magrath, will re-
ceive $184,800 under the Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance Agreement to
modernize and expand their operations.

Ellison Milling Company of Lethbridge, and a division of Parrish and Heimbecker
Ltd., will receive $1 29,600 to modernize its flour and feed milling operation. The facility was
established in 1906 and the financial assistance will be used to purchase new equipment, to
upgrade the plant, shop, office, laborat >ry and yard and to expand its product line. The cost
is estimated to be $648,000 and two new jobs are expected to be created.

Canadian Co-operative Wocl Growers Ltd. of Lethbridge will receive $29,200 to
modernize and expand its operation, v hich coll ;cts locally produced wool, grades and bales
it, and sells it to the company's head c f f ice in Ontario. The financial assistance will be used
to expand the warehouse, improve the mechanical baler, purchase a new forklift and for
other minor renovations. The cost is estimated to be $146,000 and several new jobs are
expected to be created.

The Rockport Hutterian Bn thren o Magraih will receive $26,000 to modernize
their flour mill. The mill is located < 'n the H itterite :olony's land and was established in
1955. It produces flour and a pancak mix that is sold throughout Alberta under the trade
name of "Coyote". The financial assistance will be used to automate the manual production
line, which is estimated to cost $130,000.

- (cont d) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

(403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Lethbridge Area Firms Receive Financia Assistance (cont'd)

A one year extension of the Canada-Alberta Nutritive Processing Assistance
Agreement, which is jointly administered and equally funded by the federal Department of
Regional Industrial Expansion and Alberta Agriculture, means that applicants now have until
September 30, 1984 to apply for assistance.

Further information can be obtained from Dr. Jim Wiebe, Alberta Agriculture at

427-4287.

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1983 ALBERTA FIELD CROPS REVIEW

While Alberta farmers did not establish any yield records in 1983, the overall
quality of their crops was good. In fact it was considerably better than it was in 1 982.

Alberta Agriculture's crop statistician, Marilyn Johnson, reports most of the
grade reductions that did occur were attributed to the heat stress experienced by the crops
in August and to last fall's unsettled harvesting weather. She says that the frost that occurred
in the middle of August in low-lying areas in the northeastern and northwestern regions of
the province did not cause any widespread damage, and that the frost in early September that
occurred in the central and northwestern regions had only a slight effect on grades. However,
rain during the spraying season caused excessive weed growth with the result that above aver-
age dockage levels are expected.

Ms. Johnson also reports that Alberta farmers planted a record number of acres
to field crops in 1983. She says only 4.9 million acres of land were summerfallowed com-
pared with 5.25 million acres n 1982. This was the smallest summerfallow acreage since
1939 when an estimated 4.6 million acres were out of production.

Alberta's 1983 wheat production cached a record 6.8 million tonnes and was
grown on a record 7,700,000 acres. This acreage was 12 per cent larger than that of 1982.

Total production from the province's six main qrain and oilseed crops was 14.5
million tonnes or 6 per cent lower than it was in 1982, and 7 per cent lower than Alberta's
record 1981 crop of 15.57 million tonnes.

Statistics Canada's 1983 average yield estimates, expressed in kilograms per acre,
are as follows. The figures in brackets represent the previcus five-year average. Wheat - 885
(835); oats - 910 (920); barley - 1010 (1055); rye - 830 (845); flaxseed - 465 (495); and
canola - 445 (475).

-30-

ydltxsrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 26, 1983
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HAIL AND WEATHER DAMAGE TO CROPS IN 1983

Based on claims submitted to the Alberta Hail and Crop Insurance Cor-
poration, weather-related crop losses reached a record level in 1983.

According to information recei/ed by Marilyn Johnson, Alberta Agri-
culture's crop statistician, the claims that had bet i received by December were
worth almost $84 million compared with $75 million in 1982. She says the size of
the 1983 payout can be attributed to an increase in both the number of farmers
who took out crop protection and to the losses from unfavorable weather. More
than half of Alberta's farmers had some type; of crop protection in 1983.

The crop losses that resulted from unfavorable weather were mainly in
the form of reduced yields, which resulted from early spring droughts, excessive
rain in July and heat stress in August. Ms. Johnson says nearly $47 million worth
of the 1983 claims were for these weather-related losses.

However, the number of claims for hail damage were down in 1983
compared with 1982. Total hail insurance claims in 1983 are estimated at $37
million compared with $50 million in 1982. Ms. Johnson points out that while the
1983 hail losses are lower than those recorc ed in 1982, they are still considered to
be above the long - term average.

-30-

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 26, 1983 5
FOR IMMEDIATE RElEASE

1983 ALBERTA POTATO DISEASE SITUATION

Last summer a serious virus disease, corky ring spot, was diagnosed at the Alberta
Horticultural Research Center's aboratory in potatoes that came from a home garden in the
Wainwright area. And, at about the same time, the disease was diagnosed in Saskatchewan in
potatoes that came from a home garden in Biggar.

Alberta's research center's plant pathologist, Dr. Ronald Howard, reports that
since the diagnosis was made samples of potatoes that were suspected of having corky ring
spot have been solicited from home gardeners, market gardeners and commercial growers
throughout Alberta. To date about a dozen suspicious samples have been received from five
locations in the northeastern part of the province, and confirmation tests are presently under-
way at Agriculture Canada's research stati }n in Vancouver, B.C. Corky ring spot is caused by
the tobacco rattle virus and transmitted b\ nematodes.

Dr. Howard also reports that verticillium and fusarium wilts were responsible for
reduced potato y;elds in many commercial fields and home gardens in 1983. And witches'
broom mycoplasma affected scattered plants in a commercial potato crop near Taber.

However, the incidence of bacterial ring rot in commeicial potato crops was down
in 1983 compared with the last four-year average. Of the 195 farms, on which a total of
18,759 acres of potatoes were inspected by Alberta Agriculture and agricultural service board
staff, only 9.7 per cent of the farms and 7.9 per cent of the total acreage were found to have
diseased potatoes. These figures compare with the last four-year average of 15.5 and 1 1.5 per
cent respectively.

Dr. Howard says nc ring rot was found in the counties of Forty Mile and Leth-
bridge or in the Medicine Hat, Airdrie, Red Deer or Vermilion areas. And no ring rot was
found in the 2,700 acres of seed potatoes that were inspected throughout the province by
Agriculture Canada personnel and the Alberta Seed Potato Improvement Program suDervisors.

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONFECTIONERY SUNFLOWERS

Did you know that sunflower seeds ontain 31 per cent more iron per pound than
raisins, and that they are a good source of several mportant nutrients?

According to Blair Roth, Alberta Agriculture's special crops specialist at Leth-
bridge, non-oil sunflower seeds, usually referred to as confectionery sunflowers, are high in a
number of the less common minerals, like iron, as well as in lysine and several vitamins includ-
ing thiamin and niacin. They are also a good so jrce of high quality protein and unsaturated
fat.

The other type of sunflower seed gi )wn in North America is ths oil type and it
is by far the most commonly grown on this C( ntinent. The seed from the oil type of sun-
flowers is crushed and sold as sun oil for human consumption and as a meal and hulls for live-
stock feed.

The sunflowers grown in Alberta ar<' almost always of the confectionery type be-
cause the closest processing plants for crushing the oil type seed are located in Manitoba and
North Dakota.

The uses to which confectionery si nflowers are put are mainly based upon the
quality and size of the seed, says Mr. Roth. ~ he small seed is used by the birdseed trade.
And this market is surprisingly large, particular^ in big cities where birds are the most pract-
ical pets for people to keep. Seed used in this market is either sold as a complete bird feed in
a pre-mix ration, or it is sold alone in packages or domestic bird feeding and for feeding to
wild birds during the winter months.

The medium-sized seed is used to rr ake sunflower nutmeat, which is eaten as a
snack or used as a nutritional food supplemer t. The supplement provides a considerable
amount of protein and energy in the human die . Among nuts, sjnflower seed ranks second
only to peanuts in its protein content. It is ahe id of almonds, walnuts and pecans. Mr. Roth

- (cont I) -

>dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

Confectionery Sunflowers (cont'd)

says the hulls from medium-sized sunllower seeds, which represent 45 to 60 per cent of the
seed, are often ground, pelleted and sold as cattle feed.

The large confectionery sunflower seed is used by the roasting^ trade, where the
seeds are salted and roasted in their hulls and sold in packages as a nutritious snack.

According to Mr. Roth, the percentages of small, medium and large seeds that
will be produced by a field of confectionery sunflowers depends upon the variety grown,
climatic conditions, the disease status and the number of sunflower plants per acre. As a
general rule, good moisture conditions, such as those orovided by irrigation, and a low sun-
flower plant population will ensure a high pero ntage cf large seeds. Mr. Roth reports there
are now a number of hybrids on the market t lat have been specially selected to emphasize
either the medium or the large-sized seed.

- 30

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CATTLE CARCASS BRUISING

A survey of seven American feedlots showed that the most serious
bruising in the loin and rib area of cattle occurred when the animals were crowded
through gates and around sharp comers.

Ross Gould of Alberta Agriculture's sheep and beef cattle branch says
special care should be taken when loading and unloading cattle through the slide
doors of vehicles because they are likely to bruise themselves if they crowd in from
both sides.

The survey also showed that moving finished cattle through a squeeze
chute just before they were slaughtered had no effect on the amount of damage
done to the carcasses through bruising. It was also found that the distance the
animals were transported to market had little effect. In fact, a group of cattle
trucked only 10 miles had the largest number of bruises.

The heaviest bruising apparently occurred in a group of part Brahma
steers which were reported by the researchers to be "spooky".

-30-

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTROLLING FARM INPUT COSTS

Controlling farm costs does not always mean reducing costs; it means getting the
best from every dollar spent.

Knowing what the production costs are is vital, especially in times of depressed
markets, because it is only when a farmer knows what they are that he can work towards
controlling them. Although controllhg them may sound like a difficult task, there are a
number of relatively simple approaches that can be taken.

Doug Barlund, a farm management economist with Alberta Agriculture's farm
business management branch, suggests the following approaches.

. Record all farm operating costs and the physical quantities of inputs used.
Express input c )Sts as a percentage of the farm's total operating costs.
Use soil tests to obtain an accurate indication of fertilizer requirements.

. Review farm ci Itural p actices to determine whether any tillage operations
could be eliminated or combined with c hers.

. Practice preventative ma ntenance.

. Improve the livestock herd health program.

. Pregnancy lest breeding stock.

• Monitor feed input costs to determine whether feeding levels are returning
a favorable profit.

Have feed analyzed to de ermine proper supplementation levels.

Mr. Barlund says that contr >lling any one input cost by itself is not likely to
result in a large decrease in operating e> oenses, but that a combination of controls in several
areas can significantly reduce total opera ing cosls.

(cont'd) -

/dlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

-2

Controlling Farm Input Costs (cont'd)

He also points out that controlling input costs may not mean the elimination or
reduction of the input itself. However, he says when input costs are known, a person can
adjust them to obtain the maximum profit from the farm business.

Copies of a publication on this subject that is entitled "Controlling Farm Input
Costs" (Agdex 818-21) can be obtained from district agriculturists, the Farm Management
Branch, Box 2000, Olds, Alberta, TOM 1 PO or by writing to the Publications Office, J.G.
O'Donoghue Building, 7000-1 13 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6.

- 30 -

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

1 1

CUSTOM FARMING AGREEMENT

The farm business branch of \lberta Agricull jre has a publication entitled
"Custom Farming Agreement" that is designed to help f irmers understand the basic concepts
and implications of contracting their operations out to a :ustom operator.

Such economic factors as increasing equipm ;nt costs, labor problems and high inte-
rest rates have forced many rural land owners to enter in o lease arrangements or to have a por-
tion or all for their farming done by a custom operator. However, the income tax implications
of such arrangements are often overlooked by many landlords and tenants.

Income tax implications in farm property tr msfers are such that the rollover provi-
sions can be forfeited if the land is farmed on a cash or ci op-share basis. However, with a
proper custom farming agreement, the rollover provision is maintained because a landowner is
considered to be actively farming and to be assuming the risks of the business. On the other
hand, a custom operator should be aware that under a custom farm agreement his business may
be classified as a business other than farming if his custom work accounts for a major portion of
his operations.

It became apparent when this topic was rese irched that information on custon
farming agreements was extremely limited and a format was necessary to meet the wide variety
of farming operations within the province. Hence, it was decided to develop a basic agreement
with attached schedules outlining the specific operations to be performed.

"Custom Farming Agreement" consists of three main areas. The first deals with
the various factors that should be considered by both parties and explains how to use an agree-
ment. The second contains a sample agreement with a brief explanation of the terms used in

- (cont'd) -

ydlbcrra

AGRICULTURE

(403)427-2121 Pnnt Media Branch

- 2 -

Custom Farming Agreement (cont'd) -

the contract. The final section consists of a series of work schedules for the various operations
that could be contracted out.

The format is designated so that both parties will:

(a) sit down and decide what work is to be done;

(b) complete the appropriate schedules;

(d) review the conditions attached to the agreement.

Copies of "Custom Farming Agreement" (Agdex 817-10) can be obtained from
district agriculturists, the Print Media Branch, Alberta Agriculture, J.G. O'Donoghue Build-
ing, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6 or the Farm Business Management Branch, Box 2000,
Olds, Alberta, TOM 1PO.

- 30

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

USING MANl JRE AS A FERTILIZER

Did you know that 20 per cent of the nitrogen that is available from
manure is lost if the manure is not mcorpo-ated into the soil for several days after
application and that as much as 50 per cent is lost if the manure is left sitting on top
of the soil for a week or more?

Alberta Agriculture's district agriculturist at Rocky Mountain House,
Phil Dixon, says in view of today's high fei tilizer prices it is well worth while to use
manure from a feedlot or a manure pit to mprove the level of nutrients in the soil.
And he says solid cattle manure contains an average of 14 pounds of nitrogen, 4
pounds of phosphorous and 9 pounds of potassium per ton. Hence, 15 tons of solid
cattle manure per acre would provide 210 pounds of nitrogen, 60 pounds of phos-
phorous and 1 35 pounds of potassium as v\ ell as a variety of other nutrients that are
beneficial to crops.

However, Mr. Dixon points out that rot the full amount of these nutr-
ients will be available to a crop in the ye.ir that the manure is applied to the land.
He says about 50 per cent of the nitrogen, 40 per cent of the phosphorous and 90
per cent of the potassium in the manure will be available in the year of application.

-3C -

Phone:(403)427-2121

ydlborra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SHOULD YOU BUY A COMPUTER?

If you are a farmer and you are wondering whether to buy a computer to help
you with your business decisions, remember this A cor iputer is not a "business doctor"; it is
a tool to be used by an already skillful manager.

Phil Dixon, district agriculturist at ^ocky Mountain House, says "Never buy a
computer because your neighbors have one or t ecause you think it might be useful. Your
reason for buying a computer should be based on an assessment of your managerial approach
to your business and on the farm record data you normally keep".

He recommends that a farmer who ii thinking about buying a computer ask him-
self the following questions.

• Am I a risk-taker who enjo . s experi nenting with new approaches to things?
, Am I patient enough to wait several months for results? Some of the results

may be immediate, but computer sy ;tems usually start out by being
bothersome.

• Am I a numbers pt rson? A comput ir can assist the user by numerical planning
and control if such inform; tion is available.

Mr. Dixon believes hat a f; rmer wh >se many jerial style is very casual, unstruc-
tured and tends to rely upon in) jrmal inlormatio i channels should think twice before buying
a computer.

A person who decides to get a comp iter simply because he hates to keep records
is probably on the wrong track too bee luse a cc nputer will involve such a person in an even
more intense record keeping system. T lis is because the ecords that are to be kept and the
desired reports must be defined ahead of time.

/dlbcrra

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

Phone: (403)427-2121

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF INSECTS

by Dr. Ulf Soehngen,
Alberta Horticultural Research Center, Brooks

Growing public awareness of the environment s causi ng considerable interest in the
use of long-term but effective biological control agents for controlling unwanted insects.

Although the prevalence of insect diseases caused by such diverse pathogens as
viruses, fungi, protozoans and bacteria have been known for a long time, attempts to use them
to control undesirable insect competition have traditionally receive little official support. The
reason for this lack of enthusiasm has been that they require time and favourable conditions to
"do their work". Farmers and others who depend upon immediate cash returns, as opposed to
an increase in returns at some future date, have been forced to choose chemical agents because
of their prompt, but generally short-lived result;.

which is now commercially available in several formulations, and the less well known B. sphae-
ricus, which attacks mosquito larvae, must be tested carefully. The tests are designed to deter-
mine the insects against which the agants are effective and to eliminate the possibility of their
damaging beneficial non-target organisms such as pollinators and preditors of destructive insects.

Since the tests are usually c rried ou under very artificial conditions,the pathogens
could behave quite differently in a differ* nt situation. Al ,o, any biological agent could mutate
and develop a virulent reaction that was not previously demonstrated towards a non-target

As is the case with any insecticide, biological agents like Bacillus thuringiensis,

- (cont'd) -

Phone: (403)427-2121

AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch

-2-

Biological Control Of Insects (cont'd)

organism. Fortunately, to date, this has rarely, if ever, occurred. Nevertheless great care must
be taken when using biological control agents near high concentrations of such useful insects
as honeybees.

It is unlikely that biological insect control agents will ever completely replace
insecticides. Because each pathogen works best under a specific set of conditions, there will
always be seasons when the reproductive capacity of the target insect will outstrip the ability
of the control insect to hold it down. Under such circumstances, the selective use of insecti-
cides by judiciously combining them with presently available biological insect control methods,
especially insect pathogens.

-30 -

♦

December 26, 1983

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Every month Alberta Agriculture's food specialists at the home economics labor-
atory in Edmonton receive questions from consumers about various foods and various food
processing techniques and equipment. The following is a sample of these questions and
their answers.

Q. What is the difference between brewer's yeast and the yeast used by bakers to
make bread?

A. Brewer's yeast is the dried yeast cell that is produced when beer is brewed. It
is a good source of the B vitamins and of protein. The yeast used by bakers is grown on a
grain mash and is composed of one or more strains of yeasts that are selected for their gas-
producing ability.

Q. Is it safe for people to use salt which contains yellow flecks?

A. Yes, the yellow flecks are caused by prussiate of soda (sodium fero cyanide)
which has a low toxicity level. It is allowed to be used as an anti-caking agent.

Q. Why does my microwave oven cook book recommend that strained baby food,
particularly meat, not be heated in its original jar in a microwave oven.

A. Because the liquid often forms a separate layer on the bottom of the jar. When
the jar is heated, the liquid may come to a boil before the strained meat, for example, and
force the meat out of the top of the jar.

Q. Why can't Meimac be used in a microwave oven?

A. Because it will blister and crack even when it contains food. Its alpha cellulose
content becomes extremely hot in a microwave oven and absorbs a great deal of energy.
Q. Can margarine be served in restaurants in Al :>erta?

A. Yes, but the fact that margarine is being st rved must be stated on the menu or
on a plaque on the wall of the restaurant.

- 30

ydlberra

AGRICULTURE

Phone: (403) 427-21 21 Print Media Branch

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