August 6, 1990
PAN A T"j1 AN/
For immediate release
AUG 2 1 1990
This Week
Long-terra benefits seen from CIAGA conference 1
Protecting hay from weather damage 4
Privatization of Alberta Terminals Limited enters final phase 6
Solar, wind power demonstrations in Lethbridge 7
Removing bee and wasp nests 8
Provincial 4-H heifer show popular with members 10
High participation at 4-H provincial dairy show 13
4-H sheep clubs featured at showcase 15
Briefs 17
/dlberra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-2121
Digitized by the Internet
Archive
in 2014
https://archive.org/details/agrinews00albe_42
August 6, 1990
For immediate release
1
Long-term benefits seen from CIAGA conference
Consistently good quality cattle impressed delegates who came to
Alberta for an international cattle breeders convention.
For the first time in nearly 20 years, representatives of the
Conf ederacion Interamericana de Ganaderos (CIAGA) met in Canada. Its
members hail from North, Central and South America. Over 200 CIAGA
members from 13 countries gathered in Calgary recently for the 26th
annual conference .
Billed as an opportunity to showcase the province's livestock
industry, the conference exceeded expectations of the hosting Alberta
Canada All Breeds Association (ACABA) , say two Alberta Agriculture trade
directors. International visitors were extremely impressed with the
consistent high quality of Alberta livestock, says Doug Bienert,
especially what they saw at the Calgary International Stock Show, the
Red Deer Westerner and at a variety of breeders and industry locations
in southern and central Alberta.
"The key to marketing Alberta cattle," Bienert says, "is getting the
people here to see the product. It's pretty hard for a first time
visitor to not be impressed, and a vast majority of the foreign breeders
who came were making their first trip to Canada or Western Canada."
Bienert 's colleague, Elton Dunk, adds while on impromptu tours
during the conference and during the post -conf erence tour, CIAGA
visitors were often impressed before they saw a breeder's cattle.
"First class operations and general agricultural practices found on
family farms, not large corporations made a big impression," says Dunk.
While unable to estimate exactly how many sales were generated from
conference activities, both men point out the immediate sales aren't as
important as the solid contacts made when CIAGA delegates met with local
breeders at the conference and during tours before and after the
conference .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
2
Long-term benefits seen from CIAGA conference (cont'd)
"Participation from the local breeders was a real key to the
success of the conference, both from making it a worthwhile and
enjoyable experience for the international visitors, and also for
marketing their Alberta product," says Bienert.
"The effects of the conference will be long- terra and that means
repeat customers from the good will and contacts made," adds Dunk.
Part of the conference success may be due to a first time event at
the conference, a trade show. Representatives from some of the 23
cattle breed associations and the Alberta Sheep Breeders' Association,
all ACABA members, had booths set-up during the conference.
Flurries of sign language sometimes were the mode of communication,
but the enthusiasm of the various breed organizations and their
participation added an extra marketing dimension to the conference.
Tours were arranged there and delegates could pick up general
information about individual breeds of beef and dairy cattle as well as
sheep. Showing Suffolk sheep to a group of Columbians and a Limousin
bull tour in August for interested Mexicans are two examples of the
generated activity.
The breeds' showcase also sparked interested in cross breeding,
says Bienert. "The wide range of animals and genetics here, gave the
delegates ideas about herd improvement through cross breeding."
Simultaneous English- Spanish translation service was offered at the
conference sessions that included expert speakers from throughout the
Americas .
The conference also drew high profile government representatives
which made an impact on the international delegates says Bienert.
Federal agriculture minister Don Mazankowski was on hand to officially
open the conference and Ernie Isley, Alberta's agriculture minister,
took part in the majority of conference sessions and activities.
Isley, who summed up the conference as a huge success, says
"Invaluable contacts were made by the Alberta livestock industry that
will undoubtably stimulate trade activities long into the future."
(Cont'd)
AGRIiD^BS
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Long-term benefits seen from CI AG A conference (cont'd)
The official post conference tour went to Canadiana Genetics, the
Red Deer Westerner Exhibition, Olds College, Edmonton Northlands and
Angus, Charolais, Hereford and Simmental breeders in central Alberta.
Alberta is currently the only CIAGA member province. More than 20
countries in the Americas are part of CIAGA. The organization has a
broad mandate to improve the livestock industry and provide a vehicle t
promote greater co-operation and trade between member countries.
30
Contact: Doug Bienert
427-4241
Elton Dunk
427-4241
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6, 1990
For immediate release
4
Protecting hay from weather damage
Hay should be removed from the field and stacked as soon as
possible to minimize damage from rainfall or flooding says an Alberta
Agriculture specialist.
"Moisture content at baling and bale size determine how soon hay
can be stacked," says Myron Bjorge , forage crops supervisor with the
fields crop branch in Lacombe.
Moisture content is best determined with an accurately calibrated
hay moisture tester or with a microwave oven test. Instructions for the
microwave oven test are found in Alberta Agriculture's Silage Manual
(Agdex 120\52-2). For more information, contact any Alberta Agriculture
district office.
With small square bales, a 20 per cent moisture content at baling
is considered a safe level to minimize spoiling, he says. In very hot
weather- -over 30 degrees Celsius- -the moisture content should be two per
cent drier.
"Hay is often baled at higher moisture levels to get it up ahead of
rain or to reduce leaf loss of legumes. Leaf losses are a concern when
baling dry legume hay, since legume leaf losses are about twice as high
as those for grasses.
"However, leaf losses related to moisture content don't become high
until moisture contents are under 18 per cent. When baling at higher
moisture contents, be aware your hay should cure or dry adequately,
before it's stacked," he says.
Bjorge says if moderate spoilage- -some visible molding, dustiness,
some light brown coloring from heating and minimal shrinkage -- is
acceptable, hay can be baled at a 25 per cent moisture content.
"Remember with moderate spoilage, disgestibility , animal intake and
production are minimally effected," he says.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
5
Protecting hay from weather damage (cont'd)
Hay in large round bales can be safely baled at about a lb to 1/
per cent moisture content. This depends on both the actual bale size
and air temperature. "Large bales must be drier than small bales, since
heat and moisture escapes more slowly due to the larger amount of forage
in the bigger bale," he says. Moderate spoilage will occur if baling is
done in a 17 to 20 per cent moisture content range, he adds. This range
again, depends on the bale size and air temperature.
Hay can be safely stacked in sheds at a 13 to 14 per cent moisture
content. "Some time for curing in the field allows bales to reach this
level," he says.
Storage buildings or sheds provide the best protection from weather
damage, he says. "Outside stacks provide reasonably good protection,
provided they are well covered." Bjorge advises locating stacks on high
ground where sun and wind can dry them following rain.
Bjorge notes the top bales of tarped small square bale stacks often
spoil since moisture collects at the top. Pulling up the middle bales
to form a peak or adding a single row of bales along the centre allows
air to circulate under the tarp and rainfall to run off rather than
pool .
A plastic sheet on the ground under the bottom layer also reduces
spoilage. "The plastic shouldn't extend beyond the stack, because it
will collect moisture," he says.
Large round bales should also be stacked in hay sheds if possible,
says Bjorge. If not, outside stacks need to be located on high ground
with good surface and internal drainage.
"Rounded sides of uncovered large bales shouldn't touch as spoilage
occurs at the point of contact," he says. "Store them end-to-end with
at least 18 inches between rows to minimize losses when not using a
cover in outside storage." A covered pyramid stack is acceptable, but
without a plastic cover results in excess spoilage at the point of
contact between the bales, he adds.
30
Contact: Myron Bjorge
782-4641
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6, 1990
For immediate release
6
Privatization of Alberta Terminals Limited enters final phase
Agriculture minister Ernie Isley has announced the Government of
Alberta has entered into negotiations with Cargill Limited for the sale
of Alberta Terminals Limited (ATL) .
ATL is a grain handling company, wholly owned by the Province of
Alberta, with inland terminal facilities at Lethbridge, Calgary, and
Edmonton and a trackside loading facility at High Level.
On November 16, 1989, Isley announced the province would receive
proposals for the purchase of ATL shares or assets. Since that time, a
number of proposals have been received and evaluated. Nineteen firms
indicated an interest in acquiring the company or its assets. Eight
firms made specific proposals.
"The proposals were evaluated against a carefully chosen set of
financial and public policy goals, including the degree to which the new
private sector owner could contribute to improved transportation and
handling efficiency and to more effective competition. Future
commercial viability of the operation, as well as the financial return
to the Alberta taxpayer, were also important considerations," says
Isley.
While a number of other attractive proposals were submitted, Isley
says Cargill 's proposal was judged by an interdepartmental working group
to best meet the goals established by the government. He notes, for
example, Cargill 's proposal offered the highest financial return to the
Government of Alberta.
"I expect that negotiations with Cargill Limited will lead to an
agreement for sale that will result in the Alberta government achieving
the best balance between its public policy goals and a satisfactory
realization of the Province's assets," says Isley.
The minister says negotiations with Cargill are now underway, and
are expected to result in an agreement for sale by fall.
30
Contact :
CD. Radke
427-1957
Brad Klak
427-2137
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6, 1990
For immediate release
I
Solar, wind power demonstrations in Lethbridge
Wind mills and solar pumps will be demonstrated by the Alberta Farm
Machinery Research Centre (AFMRC) near Lethbridge on August 23.
The demonstrations will be held at the Lethbridge Wind Research
Test Site, just east of the city limits. All the units are currently
being evaluated by the AFMRC.
The afternoon's activities will include a short presentation on the
history and future of the test site, as well as a walking tour of the
site and the units on test, says Rick Atkins, the centre's manager.
Atkins says this year's demonstration day is a special one for the
centre, because it's the host for the first time. The AFMRC assumed
administration of the test site in April. Previously, Alberta
Agriculture's land evaluation and reclamation branch was responsible for
the site.
"Evaluation of wind mills, solar panels, pumps and aerators
complements current evaluation underway at the centre," says Atkins.
"Through our research and development capabilities, we'll be able to
provide additional support for alternative energy sources."
Alberta Agriculture began a testing and demonstration program of
wind turbines for agricultural water pumping at the Lethbridge site in
1982. In 1987 the project was expanded to include photovoltaic (solar)
pumping systems. Funding for the site is provided by Alberta
Agriculture, Alberta Energy and Energy, Mines and Resources Canada.
Wind energy has been used since the 1850s to pump agricultural
water in North America. Peak usage was around the turn of the century.
Rural electrification dramatically decreased the demand for wind power,
but increasing energy costs in the 1970s sparked interest in alternate
energy sources.
30
Contact: Rick Atkins
329-1212
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6, 1990
For immediate release
8
Removing bee and wasp nests
Usually considered beneficial insects, bees and wasps can sometimes
be a hazard when their nests are in and around occupied buildings says
an Alberta Agriculture specialist.
The list of common types is long: honey, bumble, leafcutter,
alkali and carpenter bees; yellow jacket and mud-dauber wasps; and,
bald-faced hornets. Doug Colter, chief apiculture inspector, says
there are just about as many ways to remove the stinging insects. All
the methods have at least one thing in common.
"It's very important whatever method you use, that you do it in the
evening. That's when all the bees or wasps are in the nest. During the
day many will be away and you won't achieve a complete kill. As well,
the danger of being stung is greater in the daylight," Colter says.
One way to remove a nest is with a vacuum cleaner. This method
is especially good for nests near a door or window sill and if there is
only one nest entrance. Place a few moth balls- -paradicholorobenzene or
naptha--in the vacuum bag and hold the end of the vacuum hose at the
nest entrance. "A few hard knocks on the wall will bring out its
occupants, then they're sucked into the vacuum and overcome by fumes.
Doing this over several evenings will reduce or eliminate the bee or
wasp population," he says.
Nests in debris on the ground or under logs or rocks can be
destroyed quickly and effectively by pouring boiling water over them
after dark, he says.
Insecticides can also be used. Insecticides with pyrethrin,
resmethrin or propoxur are readily available, he says. Direct a stream
of the insecticide into the nest entrance to ensure a complete
saturation and kill .
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Removing bee and wasp nests (cont'd)
9
A spray bomb, especially for bees and wasps, is also available. It
throws a thin stream of insecticide eight to 10 feet, making it easier
to treat nests that aren't readily accessible.
Colter warns insecticides as a concentrate- -solution or dust
applied- -or an aerosol spray are toxic and should be used with extreme
care. "Follow instructions on the label, avoid danger of food
contamination and do not use them inside a dwelling," he says. He also
advises wearing protective clothing as required, to wash body and
clothes after handling, triple rinse the sprayer unit and store extra
materials out of reach and in a secure place.
"After treatment with an insecticide, remove the nest and destroy
it. If you can't remove it easily, you should fill in any entrance or
exit holes as soon as possible after any treatment," Colter says.
Because honey bees, bumble bees, wasps and hornets are social
insects, they often build large nests over the summer months. "The
brood within their nests may continue to emerge after the adults have
been removed. This may require a second or third treatment to
completely destroy the nest," he says.
The only other way to rid yourself of pest bees and wasps is to
wait for cold weather, he says. Autumn frosts kill off the worker
populations of wasp and most bee nests. Honey bees can survive the
winter clustered in the protection of their nest. To destroy them in
the winter, their nesting place must be exposed to the cold.
Colter also notes honey salvaged from honey bee nests destroyed by
pesticides isn't fit for consumption. The combs should be burned or
buried immediately.
30
Contact: Doug Colter
837-2211
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6. 1990
For immediate release
LO
Provincial 4-H heifer show popular with members
Alberta 4-H heifer club members show a lot of enthusiasm for the
annual provincial heifer show in Bashaw says Alberta Agriculture's
provincial 4-H specialist.
"We had over 140 members take part in the show again this year,"
says Henry Wiegraan.
The 14th annual show included grooming, judging, showmanship and
conformation classes for junior, intermediate and senior members.
"Another important part of the show is the freshman classes, for members
in all the age groups who are making their first appearance at the show.
The freshman classes are judged on both the animal's conformation and
the member's showmanship," says Wiegman.
All clubs are eligible for a herdsraanship award. The St. Paul
Multi Club took home the top honors for the third consecutive year.
St. Paul member Denis Kotowich also lugged home a number of awards.
His three -year old Simmental cross heifer was the supreme champion
crossbred at the show and his yearling was judged the reserve supreme
champion. Teamed with club member Kyla Makowecki , the duo won overall
team judging honors, first place in intermediate judging and were second
in showring judging.
Craig Penosky's Black Angus yearling was the supreme champion
purebred heifer. The reserve supreme champion purebred was a yearling
Limousin shown by Shane Washerol from the Mannville Multi Club.
Penosky, 12, a junior member from Botha, also took home top junior
showmanship honors .
Team grooming classes were the first competition at the show.
Junior honors went to Kimberly and Jennifer Penosky, Botha.
Intermediate winners were Leigha and Shelley Rattray, Airdrie and senior
winners were Russell and Jailene Spence , Colinton.
Top individual judging honors went to Tova Place of the Nanton Beef
Club. Place was also top senior judge. First place intermediate judge
Geoff Hoar, Knee Hill Valley Club, was second overall.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Provincial 4-H heifer show popular with members (cont'd)
I
♦ 4
► ♦
♦ 4
* *
PROVINCIAL 4-H
SHOW
i
A Black Angus yearling shown by Craig Penosky, of the Botha
Club, was the supreme champion at the 14th annual provincial
heifer show in Bashaw.
Junior team judging was won by Greg Hoar and Aaron Lutz of the Kne
Hill Valley Club. Senior honors went to Egan and Jay Brockhoff of the
Edberg Beef Club. Showring judging honors were captured by Kirk
Wildman, of Sangudo Beef, and Rusty Cox, of Arraena Beef. Wildman was
second to Debbie Dick, of Sunniebend Beef, for judging reasons. Dick
also received top honors in senior showmanship.
Shauna Adams of Hastings Coulee was the intermediate showmanship
winner .
The supreme champion in the junior freshman class was Shanna Peter
of the Delburne Beef Club with a Simmental yearling. The reserve
champion was Ron Laf ranee of the St. Paul Multi Club with a Limousin
cross yearling.
Senior freshman honors went to Bobbi-Gayle Hosegood of the West
Didsbury Club with a yearling Simmental. Annie Hopwood was the reserve
senior freshman winner. The Peers Beef Club member showed a two year
old Hereford.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
12
Provincial 4-H heifer show popular with members (cont'd)
The conformation judge was Andy Brown, of Lethbridge, with Brad
Fournier, of Millet, the junior conformation judge.
Grooming was judged by Dea Young, of Spruce Grove, and Dave
Sibbald, of Calgary. They were joined by Dave Durie, Jr., of Vegreville ,
to judge showmanship. Durie and Jay Wildman, of Sangudo , were the
freshman class judges. Along with Jim Hansen, of Bluff ton, the group
worked as judges for the judging competitions.
The show is sponsored by Alberta Agriculture, Alberta Treasury
Branches, the Bashaw Agricultural Society, the Bag Lady and the Stettler
Auction Market.
For complete show results, contact Wiegraan at the 4-H branch in
Edmonton at 427-2541.
30
Contact: Henry Wiegman
427-2541
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6, 1990
For immediate release
High participation at 4-H provincial dairy show
All but two of the 13 dairy clubs across the province were
represented by 72 4-H members at the 44th annual provincial 4-H dairy
show in Red Deer.
Lexi Wright, a senior member from a Crossf ield-Didsbury-Carstairs
area club called CDC. took home a number of individual honors. They
included first in senior judging, high showring judging with Scott
Lausen, high overall individual judge, high overall judging reasons,
senior showmanship and champion showman. The CDC club won the team
judging award.
Lexi Wright (centre) was a multiple winner at the recent
provincial 4-H dairy. Above she receives the senior
showmanship award from Terry Murray (right) from the Alberta
Dairymen's Association and Dairy Princess Grace Scheetz
(left).
Another multiple winner was Darren Hipken. The East Edmonton Club
member won the supreme championship with his yearling Holstein. Hipken
also claimed overall and top senior clipping honors.
Junior judge honors went to Lynsey Chalack of the Mountain View
Club and the intermediate first place was won by Laura Jeffry of CDC.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
14
High participation at 4-H provincial dairy show (cont'd)
Len Congdon. of Rollyview, was first in intermediate clipping and
showmanship. Dereck Van Sickle, of the Mountain View Club, won junior
showmanship .
Conformation class winners were: intermediate calf champion, Mark
Van Zeggelaar, Green Acres; summer yearling, Tracy Crest, Sturgeon
Valley; junior yearling, Corry Gross, Rollyview; calf, Linsey Chalack,
Mountain View; and, winter yearling, Tylwa Lund, Twilite.
Twilite Dairy Club, of Cherhill, won the club herdsman award for
the second consecutive year.
Norm Atkins was the senior conformation judge and Ella Wright the
junior conformation judge. John Copithorne Jr. was the showmanship and
clipping judge. Steven Land was the junior showmanship judge.
Among the show sponsors were Alberta Agriculture, the Westerner
Exhibition, Western Breeders' Service, the Alberta Holstein Association,
the Alberta Jersey Club, the Alberta Aryshire Breeders Club, the Alberta
Dairymen's Association, the Alberta Milk Haulers Association, the
Central Alberta Dairy Pool and the Central Alberta Holstein Club.
For complete show results, contact Henry Wiegman at Alberta
Agriculture's 4-H branch in Edmonton, at 427-2541.
30
Contact : Henry Wiegman
427-2541
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6. 1990
For immediate release
4-H sheep clubs featured at showcase
Sixteen Alberta 4-H sheep club members had a busy two days in Red
Deer during Sheep Showcase '90.
The members worked with 60 head of sheep in a variety of classes
including trimming, judging, showmanship and conformation.
Tina Young of the Crowfoot Beef and Sheep Club exhibited both the
supreme champion market and wool ewes at the show. Along the way she
garnered top spot in the yearling ewe class with her Dorset and wool
yearling ewe with her Ramboulette. Young also earned first place in the
intermediate trimming class.
Adam Verweire, also of
the Crowfoot club, took
reserve supreme honors with
his Dorset ewe lamb.
Verweire was also senior
showmanship champion.
Reserve supreme honors
for wool ewes went to Bobbi
Jackson, a junior from the
Rosebud Sheep Club.
Jackson also won her age
group showmanship class.
ALL EYES ON THE JUDGE IN A WOOL CLASS
Freshman classes at the show are for first time exhibitors, and
competitors are judged on their animal's conformation and their own
showmanship. The junior winner was Laureen Hall of the Rosebud club and
the senior winner was Tabitha Gourley, of the Foothills Club. Gourley
also won the champion feeder lamb class with her Suffolk.
Judging winners were: Amber Builder, junior, Irricana; Angela
Barrett, intermediate. Foothills; and. May Gourley, senior, Foothills.
Both Barrett and Gourley were double winners at the show. Barrett took
intermediate showmanship honors and Gourley won the mature ewe class.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
4-H sheep clubs featured at showcase (cont'd)
Melissa Barrett, Foothills club, won the junior trimming
competition and Rolanda Ostrora, of the same club, took top senior
honors .
The club premier exhibitor award went to the Rosebud Club from the
Didsbury area. Second place went to Irricana and third to the Okotoks
area Foothills club.
Jim Kinniburgh was the conformation judge and Gordon Cadsand was
the showmanship judge. Junior judges were Rolanda Ostrom (showmanship)
and Carmen Smith (conformation).
Sheep Showcase was sponsored by the Northern Alberta Sheep
Breeders, Gourley Farms, Ostrum Trucking, the Bag Lady, Larabco, Red Deer
Lake Processors, the Alberta Sheep Breeders Association, Coopers
Agropharm Inc., the Alberta Sheep and Wool Growers, the Western
Exposition and Alberta Agriculture.
For complete show results, contact Henry Wiegman at Alberta
Agriculture's 4-H branch in Edmonton at 427-2541.
30
Contact: Henry Wiegman
427-2541
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 6, L990
For immediate release
1 /
Agri-News briefs
1SLEY ANNOUNCES APPOINTMENTS TO MARKETING COUNCIL
Agriculture minister Ernie Isley has announced the appointments of
three new members to the Alberta Agricultural Products Marketing
Council. Frank Fallwell , Enid Schreiber and Harry Schudlo joined the
council on July 19. Fallwell is a Calgary businessman and former head
of the Alberta Food Processors Association. Schreiber is a cattle and
grain producer and municipal councillor from Dapp. Schudlo is a grain
and oilseed producer from Sexsmith. "The Alberta Agricultural Products
Marketing Council will be very well served by the addition of Ms
Schreiber, Mr. Fallwell and Mr. Schudlo as new members. Their many
years of experience, their broad knowledge of agricultural issues and
their shared dedication to progress in the agriculture and food industry
make them excellent choices as members of the marketing council," says
Isley. The council is the agency responsible for administration of the
Marketing of Agricultural Products Act. It oversees the operation of
marketing boards and commissions in the province and acts as a liaison
between the Alberta government and federal agencies. For more
information, contact Ken Smith, council general manager, in Edmonton at
427-2164 or Isley' s executive assistant Brad Klak at 427-2137.
DAIRY CONGRESS PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON FORAGES
The fourth annual Alberta Dairy Congress billed itself as 'making
hay while the sun shines' and put the focus on forages. This focus
included a first time forage competition recognizing best legume hay,
best grass\legume hay mixture and best silage. Samples were analyzed
by Alberta Agriculture and judges also made a visual inspection. Legume
hay class winners were: Adrian Goudreau, South Edmonton, first and
Otoskwan Farms, Arthur and Ernie Lange , South Edmonton, second. Michael
Berube, of Beaumont, won the grass\legume hay mix class with Richard
Wagner, of Wetaskiwin, second. The silage and hay class was won by Ray
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-news briefs (cont'd)
18
DAIRY CONGRESS PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON FORAGES (cont'd)
Heppern, of Ellerslie, with Francis Demilliano, of Calmar, second. Cash
prizes ranged from $100 for first place to $25 for third. Competition
sponsors included Prairie Seeds, Star Quality Sampler, Apple Auto Glass
and Pickseed Canada. A display of forage grasses by the University of
Alberta's plant science department was another new feature. Farm tours
were also part of congress activities for the first time. Three area
dairy operators were the tour stops. Educational seminars discussed
climate, non-bloat alfalfa and legume seed inoculation. For more
information, call the Congress office at 986-8108.
ACC HIRES NEW GENERAL MANAGER
Gary Sargent is the general manager of the Alberta Cattle
Commission (ACC) . Sargent brings over 20 years of management experience
in the agricultural industry to his new position. Most recently, he v/as
executive assistant to the chief executive officer of a major
agricultural organization. "The ACC welcomes Sargent's extensive
business management, public relations, agricultural policy development
and marketing capabilities to our organizations," says George Schoepp,
ACC chairman. Sargent began his new duties on July 30. He can be
contacted in Calgary at 275-4400.
STAMPEDE HOLDS FIRST SUPREME CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITION
Champion bulls and females in 3.5 beef breed were on display at the
first parade of champions at the Calgary Stampede. Top honors and
$5,000 awards in both categories went to 30 -month old Charolais cattle.
A panel of seven people, representing different breeds and sectors of
the cattle industry, judged the best of best and the winner was
determined from their collective scores. The winning bull was SVC
Futurist 809X owned by a consortium of four Alberta breeders. Levi's
Keepsake Pld 6X, owned by Levi's Cattle Service of Sedley, Saskatchewan,
was the supreme champion female. At other Stampede activities, the
steer classic
(Cont'd)
m
GO
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
19
STAMPEDE HOLDS FIRST SUPREME CHAMPIONSHIP COMPETITION (cont'd)
champions auction generated over $27,000 in sales. More than $8,000 was
raised during the sale- -and resales- -of steers and market lambs for the
Shock Trauma Airt Rescue Society (STARS). For more information, contact
Don Stewart, Stampede agriculture manager at 261-0162.
CROPS OF ALBERTA OPEN HOUSE AUG. 9 AND 10
A better understanding of the relationship between what a farmer
produces and what ends up on a consumer's table is the goal of this
year's Crops of Alberta open house. The display, located just south of
Alberta Agriculture's headquarters (the J.G. O'Donaghue Building,
7000-113 Street, Edmonton), includes 70 different cereal, oilseed and
specialty crops. This year's annual open house will feature an
individual crop use theme. The Crops of Alberta display is open
throughout the summer to the public to tour on their own. Each plot is
labeled with the crop type and its use. During the open house tours
will be given at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. For more information,
contact John Doyle at 427-7098.
UNINVITED GUESTS AT DINNER VIDEO
A 19-minute videotape featuring four true-life dramas of
food-bourne illness is now available for loan from Alberta Agriculture's
Film Library. "Uninvited Guests to Dinner" discusses safe food
preparation, cooking, storage and serving. Write the Alberta
Agriculture Film Library at 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, T6H 5T6 for
lending information.
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
AGRI'iiiiiiiii
August 13, 1990
B + , CANAD1ANA
t-or immediate release
AUG 2 1 1990
This Week
Agriculture ambassador educational program announced 1
Feedgrain supplies tight despite increased production 3
Wheat prices forecasts down with favorable crop conditions 4
World oilseed stock limits canola prices 5
Low bloat alfalfa possible by mid-1990s 6
25th anniversary celebrations highlight 1990 4-H conservation camp 8
Soil conservation professor appointed 9
Alberta Agriculture undergoes departmental reorganization 11
Alberta Agriculture appointments 12
Briefs 14
/dlberra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-212"!
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
1
Agriculture ambassador educational program announced
Alberta Agriculture's Ag in the Classroom program has started an
ambitious project to put an agricultural ambassador in every Alberta
school in the next five years.
The new Agricultural Ambassador Program was announced at the
inaugural Summer Agriculture Institute in Lethbridge. "Through the
program, we're creating an infrastructure that will for the first time
formally link every school in the province to the agricultural
industry," says Betty Gabert , Ag in the Classroom co-ordinator .
A teacher agricultural ambassador, designated in every school, will
be supported with training workshops, classroom materials and a major
network of agricultural industry contacts, says Gabert. "Each school's
agricultural ambassador will play a leadership role in having colleagues
incorporate agriculture into their course material and also be a
clearing house of information and materials other teachers can use in
their classes . "
Development of the ambassador program is a natural extension of the
Summer Agriculture Institute program, says Gabert. The institute is an
intensive 12-day, full -credit, fourth year university level course for
teachers. Hands-on learning is combined with practical curriculum
development. Practicing Albex'ta teachers at all grade levels and
fourth year education students are eligible to attend the institute.
"People prepared to take leadership roles in their community and do
professional development with their colleagues were qualities looked for
in Institute applicants," says Gabert. "Institute graduates will
hopefully be a first source of agricultural ambassadors."
Southern Alberta will be the first target area of the ambassador
program, she says. Regions will be designated with the institute as it
moves around the province each year. "Later this year there will be an
official launch of the ambassador program in southern Alberta. More
details about how the program will operate will be available then."
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agriculture ambassador educational program announced (cont'd)
The Alberta Wheat Pool is already involved as a partner in the
ambassador program. The Fool has committed $20,000 to the first year of
the project, and will review ongoing sponsorship annually over the next
five years. As well, it will be involved in developing the program,
says Gabert.
"Having the involvement of a major agricultural organization
enhances the community element of the ambassador program," she says.
"Involving the community in learning is an important overall direction
of education in Alberta."
30
Contact: Betty Gabert
427-2402
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1.990
For immediate release
3
Feedgrain supplies tight despite increased production
Slightly higher international feedgrain prices are coming this
winter says an Alberta Agriculture market analyst.
"World feedgrain consumption is projected to exceed production
again in 1990-91. The tighter demand-supply balance will be reflected
in higher prices. Cheaper wheat will be competitive and keep feedgrain
prices from moving drastically higher." says Charlie Pearson in a
quarterly feedgrain situation and outlook report.
International barley prices will range between $135 and $150
(Canadian dollars) this winter, he says. "Weather, demand and politics
will all play a part in barley prices before and after the crop is
harvested," he says. Prairie barley producers can expect a combined
adjustment/final payment of $20 to $35 in addition to the current port
position initial payment of $90 per tonne. Off -board barley prices at
Prairie elevators will likely hold in the $75 to $95 per tonne range
through the fall and winter, he says.
In local markets, Pearson gives a 50 per cent likelihood to prices
between $90 and $105 in central and northern Alberta and between $105
and $120 in the south. These prices are similar to last year's, he
adds .
Alberta feed oat prices are also forecast to remain around last
winter's levels he says. He predicts a range between $65 and $80 per
tonne. "High quality oats should hold to between a $10 to $20 per tonne
premium over normal feed oats," he adds.
Rye prices will likely be in the $60 to $80 per tonne range, he
says. "The only hope for rye prices at the upper end of the range is
improvements in the feedgrain complex," he says.
30
Contact: Charlie Pearson
427-5386
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13. 1990
For immediate release
4
Wheat price forecasts down with favorable crop conditions
Prospects of a record 1990-91 global wheat crop have pressured
international prices lower in recent weeks says an Alberta Agriculture
market analyst .
"Price declines are a reflection of generally good conditions for
world wheat production. As well, continued use of export subsidies by
the United States and the EC is a major factor in low prices, in spite
of historically tight supplies," says Charlie Pearson in a quarterly
feedgrain situation and outlook.
International wheat prices take their cue during the summer from
weather's impact on spring crops in the northern hemisphere. "Prices
during the winter will reflect demand, particularly from feed wheat
consumption and economic reforms in Eastern Europe," he says.
Pearson bases his forecasts of Alberta-based prices on high
international feedgrain prices and continued strong world wheat demand.
He says the most likely range for total Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) wheat
payments are between $140 and $160 per tonne for #1 CWRS wheat and
between $120 and $140 for //3 CWRS.
Canadian wheat production is forecast at 26.5 million tonnes.
Canadian wheat supplies are forecast to grow by five per cent from
1989-90 to 32.4 million tonnes.
As with other classes of wheat, durum prices are expected to bottom
during the summer and then improve during the winter, staying close to
1989-90 levels, he says. Pearson forecasts the most likely range for #1
Amber Durum (Alberta-Based CWB) at $140 to $160 per tonne.
30
Contact: Charlie Pearson
427-5386
AGRI-I
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
5
World oilseed stock limits canola prices
Canadian canola supplies will be extremely tight in 1990-91, says
an Alberta Agriculture market analyst, but price improvements will be
limited by the world oilseed situation.
"Even with above average yields, Canadian canola supplies will be
very tight in the coming crop year. The tight Canadian canola supply
demand balance isn't reflective of the world market," says Charlie
Pearson in a quarterly oilseed situation and outlook report. "A large
South American soybean crop and the probability of a large American crop
this fall will keep a cap on Prairie canola prices."
Canadian canola production is estimated to be 3.3 million tonnes,
up eight per cent from 1989-90. The production forecast is based on a
average yield of 23 bushels per acre.
Pearson says inadequate Canadian canola supplies and poor crush
margins because export markets will pay premium canola prices, will mean
under utilization of domestic crush capacity again in 1990-91. Total
1990-91 domestic crush is forecast at 1.2 million tonnes, similar to
1989-90 levels, and 60 per cent of the total available capacity.
Pearson says he expects Alberta 1990-91 elevator/crusher bids in
the $270 to $300 per tonne range, similar to the past crop year's
prices .
Flax prices, however, probably won't return to the highs of this
past winter, he says. 1990 flaxseed production is forecast at 900,000
tonnes, up 70 per cent from 1989. Alberta 1990-91 prices are forecast
in the $240 to $280 per tonne range, a 15 to 25 per cent decline from
the 1989-90 average.
30
Contact: Charlie Pearson
427-5386
AGR 1
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
6
Low bloat alfalfa possible by mid-1990s
An Agriculture Canada researcher predicts the one flaw in the queen
of forages may be diminished by mid-decade.
Alfalfa is known as the queen of forages to agricultural producers
because it has a number of major advantages. It can: survive
temperatures between minus 40 and plus 50 degrees Celsius; is highly
drought tolerant, long-lived as a perennial and dual-purpose as forage
or hay; improves soil by biologically fixing nitrogen and conserves soil
by providing organic matter and acting as a cover crop; and, produces
the most protein per acre of any crop with a high feeding value and even
has the potential to have its protein extracted for human nutrition.
These advantages make it an extremely popular crop with producers, but
there is a deterrent.
"In spite of all the advantages, the main disadvantage is the
capacity to cause bloat," says Bernie Goplen, an Agriculture Canada
researcher who has been working with alfalfa and bloat for the last 20
years. This disadvantage is a deadly and costly one. Bloat cost
Canadian farmers an estimated $25 million in 1985, he says. American
costs are about four times that amount.
Goplen told audiences at educational seminars during the annual
Alberta Dairy Congress in Leduc , alfalfa with low bloat potential could
be available by 1995. This alfalfa won't be completely bloat-safe, he
says, but will have a much reduced bloat potential. Biotechnology, he
adds, may have the key to a bloat-safe alfalfa.
Currently the Agriculture Research Station in Saskatoon is beginning
its fourth cycle of breeding selection for low bloat alfalfa. Breeding
research on bloat-safe alfalfa cultivars started in Saskatoon in 1970.
Goplen has worked there since then, and currently heads the forage crops
section. In the first three breeding cycles, researchers were able to
reduce bloat potential by about 75 per cent. Goplen says they'd like
the number to be closer to 100 per cent before it's released for general
use .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
7
Low bloat alfalfa possible by mid-1990s (cont'd)
Researchers in Goplen's group have related the bloat potential to
how quickly alfalfa is broken down as it's digested in a cow's rumen,
the first stomach. In experiments including non-bloating legumes, they
found alfalfa was more fragile and broke down more rapidly releasing
proteins, or foaming agents, similar to those in egg whites. This foam
traps gas in the animal's rumen. So instead of the cow belching out the
gas, trapped gas collects, plugs the opening to the esophagus and can
cause the stomach to swell or bloat. Trapped gases can swell the rumen
enough to put pressure on the heart and lungs and asphyxiate the animal .
Goplen says development of the low bloat potential alfalfa is only
an intermediate step to a bloat-safe alfalfa. "I believe very firmly,
ultimately a bloat-safe alfalfa will be achieved by biotechnology and
the development of a high tannin alfalfa variety," he says.
Biotechnology will enable researchers to put the non-bloating
characteristic of a legume called sainfoin into alfalfa. The
characteristic is condensed tannin which slows down the initial
fermentation and therefore digestion in a cow's rumen. The tannin
precipitates, or chemically removes, the foaming agents so they are so
longer part of the digestive process.
None of the 33 annual or 26 perennial alfalfa species contain
tannin, Goplen says. As well, there is no way to naturally crossbreed
alfalfa and sainfoin. However, biotechnology's gene transfer process
puts a bloat-safe alfalfa into the realm of possibility. If
biotechnology can successfully add the tannin trait, a new generation of
alfalfa varieties will be created that will be palatable and bloat-safe,
says Goplen.
30
AGRIi
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
o
I
J
August 13. 1990
For immediate release
8
25th anniversary celebrations highlight 1990 4-H conservation camp
Alberta's 4-H Conservation Camp celebrated its 25th anniversary by
breaking sod for a new environmental interpretive centre.
Grant MacEwan, longtime conservationist and former provincial
lieutenant-governor, broke sod for the facility with a horse and plow.
MacEwan once owned the 58-hectares site on Battle Lake, now the
provincial 4-H centre. He sold the property to the 4-H Foundation in
1977 with the assurance 4-H would protect the environmentally sensitive
area .
Major funding for the environmental facility, scheduled for
completion next June, is co-sponsored by Alberta Power Limited and
TransAlta Utilities. Both companies, original and continuing sponsors
of the conservation camp, have contributed $10,000 to the project.
"The interpretative centre will strengthen awareness of the camp's
conservation theme and serve as an introduction to the current nature
trail system," says Henry Wiegman, camp director and specialist with
Alberta Agriculture's 4-H branch.
The sod turning ceremony was the finale of the annual six-day camp.
4-H campers from across the Prairie provinces and Montana participate in
a combination of classroom activities and field trips to learn about
conservation. Each of the 66 delegates concentrates on two of five
resource areas that include forest, soil, water, range and fish and
wildlife. Group and study sessions are led by resource specialists from
Alberta Agriculture, Alberta Environment, Alberta Forestry, Lands and
Wildlife, Olds College and the sponsoring utility companies.
"A camp highlight is a mock development hearing where delegates
take on roles to examine an environmental issue. It helps them
appreciate the complexity of environmental decisions," says Wiegman.
MacEwan also presented the 1990 conservation award named for him to
Deanna Brown, of Tofield. The annual award is given to the conservation
camp delegate who best communicates the conservation message in the year
following the camp.
30
Dan VanKeeken
420-7090
Contact: Henry Wiegman
427-2541
Mona Hari
498-7032
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
Soil conservation professor appointed
A soil conservation research professorship has been created at the
University of Alberta.
Agriculture and forestry dean, Edward Tyrchniewicz and Bob Bogle,
Alberta Agricultural Research Institute chairman, announced the new
position earlier this month.
R. Cesar Izaurralde has been named to fill the position as research
professor of soil conservation in the university's soil science
department .
The professorship is one of four initiated by the Alberta
Agricultural Research Institute, the co-ordinating body for agricultural
research conducted in the province. The soil conservation professorship
is a joint venture with the Canada -Alberta Soil Conservation Initiative
(CASCI), a major program established by the federal and Alberta
governments in July, 1989.
Izaurralde 's new responsibilities include development of research
and extension programs in cropping systems and soil conservation. One
of his first priorities is to familiarize himself with current
conservation programs and problems specific to Alberta. He has already
visited agrologists and farmers in Airdrie, Lethbridge, Coaldale,
Brooks, Oyen and Hanna . As well, he is currently planning two research
programs with colleagues at the University of Alberta, Alberta
Agriculture and Agriculture Canada.
Problems related to soil degradation, including wind and water
erosion, have received considerable media and research attention in
recent years. While much is now known about the prevention of soil
degradation, serious problems still exist, in part because recommended
conservation practices aren't yet widely implemented by farmers.
"Dr. Izaurralde will play an invaluable role in Alberta's soil
conservation efforts, in helping transfer available resource management
information directly for farmers and to the public, and in developing
and encouraging research work where gaps in our information still
exist," says Tyrchniewicz.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Soil conservation professor appointed (cont'd)
10
"The Alberta Agricultural Research Institute is pleased to support
a position which will help the province's farmers gain access to the
information they need to protect the productive capability of our soil
resource for current and future generations," says Bogle.
Izaurralde is a native of Argentina, where he completed the
equivalent of a BSc at the Universidad Nacional de Cordoba. He also
studied at Kansas State University, received a MSc in soil conservation
and management in 1981 and a PhD in soil fertility in 1985. He joined
the University of Alberta's soil science department as a research
associate in 1986.
"Dr. Izaurralde has broad experience in agronomic research,
extension and teaching," says Tyrchniewicz . "His knowledge and
abilities will be valuable assets to the department of soil science, and
he will provide an important link between the department, the Alberta
Agricultural Research Institute and the wider agricultural community."
30
Contact: Ralph Christian J. A. Robertson
422-1072 492-0191
Cesar Izaurralde
492-5104
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
1 i
Alberta Agriculture undergoes departmental reorganization
A closer link between agricultural production and marketing will be
achieved through a reorganization of Alberta's Department of
Agriculture .
"In the interest of an even closer and more effective working
relationship between Alberta Agriculture's production and marketing
divisions, the two have been amalgamated to reflect the increasing
market orientation of the department," says Ben McEwen, Alberta
Agriculture's deputy minister.
The six divisions of this new sector are plant industry, animal
industry, animal health, marketing services, market development and
rural development. Barry Mehr , former assistant deputy minister for
marketing, will head this new production and marketing sector.
This change is only one of the reorganizations prompted by the
recent retirements of assistant deputy ministers Harold Hanna ,
production, and Bill Dent, field services. All changes were effective
August 7.
Assistant deputy minister Doug Radke will lead an expanded planning
and development sector. "Consistent with the department's consolidation
of all major policy related activities within this sector, the trade
policy secretariat will now report directly to Mr. Radke," says McEwen.
Central program support will also now report to the planning and
development sector. "This move recognizes the developmental nature of
many of those programs, as well as the efficiency gains from
consolidating administration of all special programs," he says. To this
end, the Crow Benefit Offset Program administration, including the 1990
Farm Income Assistance Program, will be added to the responsibilities of
the administrative director of central program support.
As well, Irene Leavitt has been confirmed as assistant deputy
minister of field services, a position she has held in an acting
capacity since early May. A departmental competition will be held to
choose her successor as director of rural services.
30
Contact: Ben McEwen
427-2145
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
12
Alberta Agriculture Appointments
NEW PLANNING SECRETARIAT MEMBER
Barbara Stroh is the newest member of Alberta Agriculture's
Planning Secretariat. Stroh has spent 21 years working for the
department in various capacities. Most recently she worked as the field
services sector's extension specialist for eight years. In her capacity
as a secretariat member, she will be involved in strategic, policy and
program planning and evaluation with a primary emphasis on human
resource planning. She will also continue to represent Alberta
Agriculture on the interdepartmental committee on women's programs.
"I'm very pleased to welcome Barbara to the secretariat. Her experience
and expertise in staff training and development will be important to the
department, particularly in the area of strategic planning and
management," says Ken Beswick, the secretariat's chairman. "I'm looking
forward to taking on new challenges and opportunities of my new
position," Stroh says. "As well, I'm excited about adding my experience
and perspectives to the secretariat team." She holds a BSc in home
economics from the University of Alberta and has completed master level
course work in adult education, communication and evaluations. She
joined the secretariat on August 1. She can be reached in Edmonton at
427-2417.
TABER HAS NEW DISTRICT AGRICULTURIST
Tilly Gamble is the new Alberta Agriculture district agriculturist
in Taber. Gamble moved to Taber after spending nine months training at
the Westlock district office. She spent two summers as an assistant
district agriculturist, first in Vermilion in 1988 and then in
Claresholra in 1989. She also spent two summers working as a weed
inspector for the Municipal District of Starland. "The Taber area is
very diverse and I'm enjoying learning more about the specialty crops
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
13
Alberta Agriculture appointments (cont'd)
TABER HAS NEW DISTRICT AGRICULTURIST (cont'd)
produced here, as well as meeting with producers and producer
organizations," she says. As district agriculturist, she will provide
information and educational programs to farmers and farm organizations.
Gamble graduated from Olds College's agronomy program in 1986 and
completed a BSc in agriculture at the University of Alberta in 1989.
Gamble hails from Bassano where she was raised on a mixed farm. She can
be contacted in Taber at 223-7907.
DAIRY PRODUCTION SPECIALIST APPOINTED FOR NORTH EAST REGION
Ed Chell is the new Alberta Agriculture north east regional dairy
production specialist based in Vermilion. Dairy production specialists
inspect producer facilities and provide extension information on milk
quality to dairy farmers. Prior to joining Alberta Agriculture, Chell
was employed by Palm Dairies in Edmonton as a production supervisor and
Clean-in-Place (CIP) operations supervisor. He received his BSc in food
science from the University of Alberta in 1987. After graduation, he
took part in an international student exchange program for technical
experience and worked for a German government diary research institute.
He was born in Claresholm and also has called Wetaskiwin, Calgary and
Edmonton home. Chell can be contacted in Vermilion at 853-8109.
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
14
Agri-News briefs
FARM FUEL PROGRAM CHANGED
The eligibility criteria for the Alberta Farm Fuel Distribution
All owance (AFFDA) has been changed. The minimum annual farm income
required to qualify for this program has been increased from $2,500 to
$10,000 effective August 1. Provincial Treasurer Dick Johnston and
Agriculture Minister Ernie isley made the announcement. The AFFDA
program subsidizes farm fuel prices by 14 cents per litre (63 cents per
gallon) for gasoline and 19 cents per litre (86 cents per gallon) for
diesel fuel, including exemption from Alberta's seven cents per litre
fuel tax. In order to qualify, farming must be on a commercial scale,
as measured by annual gross farming receipts. "The AFFDA program is now
targeted more specifically towards commercial farming operations," says
Johnston. "The change in the minimum income requirement will ensure
that this program meets that objective." Isley says Alberta farm fuel
prices are the lowest in Canada. "Most other provinces exempt farmers
from paying all or part of their fuel taxes. Only in Alberta do farmers
receive full fuel tax exemptions plus a substantial grant. The total
cost to the government in 1990-91, including foregone revenue, is
estimated to be $158 million," he says. Alberta Treasury will soon be
providing farmers will instructions on how to qualify under the new
criteria. The procedure will be simple and straight forward to minimize
disruption to farmers' busy fall schedule. For more information,
contact Myles McDougall, office of the Treasurer, 427-8809.
REFERENCE MANUAL FOR FARM ENTERPRISES AVAILABLE
A reference book with farm business information about eight major
farm enterprises is available to readers who want expert knowledge to
make improved decisions. Typical successful farm operations are
described with details on production management, capital requirements and
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
15
REFERENCE MANUAL FOR FARM ENTERPRISES AVAILABLE (cont'd)
financial factors. Financial and non-financial measures are suggested
as ways to analyze the farm business and achieve key results. Alberta
Agriculture specialists prepared the enterprise sections of the manual
dealing with beekeeping, beef, crops, dairy, poultry, sheep, swine and
horse farm enterprises. The manual was compiled by Craig Edwards, a
farm management economist with the farm business management branch, and
it was printed by Olds College. The manual is updated and used for an
annual five-day agricultural lenders workshop. Extra manuals are also
made available each year at a cost of $35. "Farmers, as well as
agricultural consultants and educators, will benefit by having this hand
book as a reference. it provides much information about enterprises
into one book and saves a lot of time for the people who use it," says
Edwards. Anyone interested in the manual, can contact Cindy Turner, at
Olds College extension services, at 556-8339.
HISTORIC CATTLE DRIVE FUND RAISER FOR A WESTERN HERITAGE CENTRE
Recreating an historic cattle drive for the 40 miles between
Sibbald Flats and Cochrane will raise money for a Western Heritage
Centre in Cochrane. The fund-raising drive, slated for September 26
through 30, offers three ways to participate: donating livestock, rider
or teamster; cash to purchase livestock, rider or teamster
participation; or, a donation of livestock or cash without riding along.
Food for participants and feed for livestock will be supplied throughout
the drive. Cattle donations will be received from across Western
Canada. The registration cut-off is September 1. When the cattle reach
Cochrane, they will be sorted and sold at an auction. Organizers hope
to have about 1,500 head. All proceeds from the auction will go the
heritage centre building fund. Administration costs and expenses will
be met from sponsorship and souvenirs sales. For more information about
the "Hooves of History" cattle drive, contact the Cattle Drive 1990
office at 932-4611 or 932-4021 (FAX 932-4656).
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
16
RAM TEST STATION SALE ANOTHER SUCCESS
The top indexing ram at the 16th annual Alberta Ram Test Station
Sale sold to an American buyer for $700. The Suffolk ram from the flock
of Dennis Rasichney, of Redwater, had an average daily gain of .652
kg/day. The same buyer, Allan Hankel , of Lisbon, North Dakota, also
paid the top price of the day, $900, for another Suffolk ram. An
average price of $349.56 was paid for 54 rams. Sixteen of the rams sold
went to out of province buyers from Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia
and Manitoba. Just over 200 rams from 37 breeders were entered on test
this year. Only rams above the station average for average daily gain
for their breed are considered for sale. A culling committee then
further looks at teeth, legs and testicles. The Alberta Sheep Breeders
Trophy for the highest group average daily gain for four or more rams
went to Cyril Seutter, of Sherwood Park. His five Suffolk rams averaged
.545 kg/day. A new test station record for the Romanov breed was set at
.407 kg/day. Clun Forests, Rideau Arcotts and Finnish Landrace were
tested for the first time in 1990. The Canadian Co-operative Wool
Growers trophy for the yearling with the highest overall index on the
wool breeds test went to John Balderson Farms of Magrath. The test
station and sale are held at Olds College. For more information about
the test station and sale, contact Cathy Gallivan, Alberta Agriculture
sheep specialist, in Airdrie at 948-8517.
CANADIAN CHAROLAIS BULL EXPORTED TO BRAZIL
For the first time, a purebred Canadian Charolais bull from Western
Canada is going to Brazil. "This could be the opening of a tremendous
market opportunity in Brazil for Canadian Charolais cattle," says Ken
Aylesworth, Canadian Charolais Association general manager. The
movement of this bull to Brazil is significant because of its impact on
a hurdle in place for the last 25 years - -acceptance of Canadian purebred
Charolais pedigrees in Brazil. Brazilian breeders are now looking to
Canada to improve genetics in their country. A recent delegation of
Brazilian cattlemen to Canada spent about $500,000 on cattle purchases
across the nation. For more information, contact Aylesworth in Calgary
at 250-9242.
AGRI
e/s
Alberta Agriculture, Information S&r/ices Division
GO GO GO GO GO GO GO GO GO GO
August 20, 1990
For immediate release
P 1 2 1990
This Week
Agricultural trade mission successful 1
August 31 application deadline for Farm Income Assistance program 4
Hog prices remain strong b
Slaughter cattle supply predicted tight this fall and winter /
Slow turnaround forecast for lamb prices 9
July wet, except in northern Alberta 10
Harvesting garden vegetables 12
New field services assistant deputy minister appointed 14
Briefs 16
/dlbcrra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-2121
August 20, 1990
For immediate release
1
Agricultural trade mission successful
Alberta's Associate Agriculture Minister has returned from a three
week trade mission whose focus was an LI day visit to the Russian Soviet
Federated Socialist Republic (RSFSR) to explore trade opportunities for
Alberta's private sector.
Representatives from Alta Genetics, Independent Breeders, the
Alberta Wheat Pool , Alsask Processors and Agriteam Canada joined Shirley
McClellan on the mission.
The mission resulted from a protocol signing during a visit by
RSFSR officials to Alberta in May. The protocol committed Alberta to
exploring mutually beneficial economic opportunities with the RSFSR that
have developed due to recent political and economic changes. The
protocol falls under the umbrella of a co-operation agreement in
agriculture signed between the two parties in 1986.
The Alberta delegation visited state and collective farms and met
with officials in Khabarovsk, Novisibirsk, Ufa, and finally Kurgan,
where they were joined by officials from Orenburg. As a result of the
contacts made, five memoranda of agreement were signed and another two
memoranda are under advisement. It's expected that these letters of
intent will lead to contracts valued in the millions of dollars for
Alberta businesses.
In Moscow, as a conclusion to the Soviet leg of the mission,
McClellan and Anatoly Ustjuzanin, Minister of Agriculture and Food
Procurement for the RSFSR, signed a protocol stating both governments'
support of the private sector and state and collective farm initiatives
and a commitment to help approved projects obtain financing. The
ministers also expressed an intention to explore ways in which
agricultural extension services in the RSFSR could be developed.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
2
Agricultural trade mission successtul (cont'd)
"As a first-time visitor to the RSFSR, I was struck by two things.
First, the country is remarkably similar to our own in many respects,
and shows tremendous potential tor agriculture. Second, I was
overwhelmed by the enormous challenges facing the RSFSR as it moves
trom a planned to a market -driven economy. Tremendous opportunities
exist for Alberta's agribusinesses in the RSFSR, particularly in dairy
and beef cattle genetics and crop improvement. All sectors are thirsty
for new technology and eager to benefit trom Canadian expertise.
Clearly, their high regard tor Alberta's industry is an asset to any
business contemplating trade with the RSFSR," says McClellan.
In light of the outstanding importance of international trade to
Alberta, McClellan met in Geneva with trade representatives and General
Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) officials. The purpose of the
meetings was to convey her concern regarding the need for a successful
resolution of the GATT agricultural negotiation. GATT negotiators are
forging a framework for international trade liberalization which, if
successful, will open new markets and opportunities for Alberta.
McClellan says she is guardedly optimistic that a general agreement will
be ready by the December deadline; however, she indicates key players
remain divided on some major issues.
"The outcome of these negotiations will have a major impact on
our province," says McClellan, "And, 1 impressed upon the negotiators
our desire to see trade barriers come down and a level playing field
created for Alberta products."
The trade mission included a Tokyo stop-over, to follow up on
contacts made during her mission to the Pacific Rim in November, 1989.
The itinerary included a visit with Alberta's biggest beef customer in
Japan, the Tomin Seikyo retail co-operative. Representatives of Tomin
Seikyo were in Alberta last week to learn more about beet industry.
McClellan was pleased with the tremendous success in Japan of the Canada
Beef Export Federation, which has supported impressive sales increases
tor Canadian beef processors. At least 80 per cent of Canadian beef
products going into Japanese market are supplied by Alberta.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agricultural trade mission successful (cont'd)
3
Also as part of the trade mission, a meeting was held in Paris with
Hermes, a major international fashion house known lor its high quality
leather merchandise. Hermes conducted a pilot project in Alberta which
showed Alberta hides to be superior to Hermes' traditionally-sourced
hides. Based on the success of the project, Hermes intends to expand
its procurement program in Alberta.
McClellan concluded her mission in London, where she met with
officials from Hillsdown, the company that recently purchased one of
Alberta's largest agribusinesses, Canada Packers Inc.
"This mission was successful in strengthening trade relationships
in markets that are fundamentally important to Alberta agricultural
producers and processors. It becomes obvious very quickly that we are
living in a time of rapid globalization, and it is important that we as
Albertans take advantage of the many exciting opportunities that exist
throughout the world," she says.
30
Contact: Louise Riopel
Barry Mehr
422-9156
427-2442
David Chalack
Alta Cenetics
239-8882
Alex Kowalchuk
Alberta Wheat Pool
290-4658
Bob Francis
Agriteara Canada
253-5298
David Black
Independent Breeders
946-5667
Andy Bernard
Alsask Processors
476-1366
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, 1990
Kor immediate release
4
August 31 application deadline tor Farm Income Assistance program
Alberta farmers have until the end ot this month to apply tor
assistance from a $100 million federal/provincial assistance package.
"Farmers must apply for the assistance through their local Alberta
Agriculture district office," reminds Don Scheer, program administrator.
All farmers in the province are eligible for a payment of $4.10 per
acre on all 1989 improved seeded acres, including forages. Payments
won't be made on acres that were in summer! al low . Also excluded are
forage acres on which claims were made through the Northwest Alberta
Disaster Assistance Program and cultivated land covered by Crown grazing
leases .
Farmers will receive an initial payment of 8b per cent ot their
claim. After all applicants have received their initial payment,
remaining funds will be distributed. "We hope to have all the first
payments made by mid-September," says Scheer.
There is also a second component of the income assistance program.
Southeastern farmers in the Multi-Year Disaster Benefit (MYDA) area that
have suffered consecutive drought years have been targeted for an
additional payment of $3 per cultivated acre, excluding summerf allow and
irrigated land. To be eligible for this extra payment, producers must
farm in Special Areas 2, 3 and 4, the County of Paintearth or the
Municipal Districts of Cypress, Acadia and Provost.
The package, with $89 million from the federal government and a
$11 million contribution from the provincial government in addition to
its 1990-91 budget enhancements, is designed to offset farm income
losses from poor weather, high input costs and low world grain prices.
For more information about applying for this assistance, contact
your nearest Alberta Agriculture district office.
30
Contact: Don Scheer
422-0015
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, 1990
tor immediate release
5
Hog prices to remain strong
Alberta hog prices will follow prices in the United States and stay
well above year-ago price levels for the remainder of the year savs an
Alberta Agriculture market analyst.
Ron Gietz predicts third quarter producer payment prices between
$1.65 and $1.75 per kilogram this month and next, and between $1.50 and
$1.60 for the final quarter of the year. A seasonal low demand for pork
is likely to occur in December, he says.
"Prices similar to these forecasts would ensure moderate
profitability for Alberta hog producers, particularly given current
expectations of lower barley prices this fall," says Gietz. He adds no
payouts from the national tripartite stabilization program are expected
for the remainder of the year.
His price predictions are based on the continuation of a strong
Canadian dollar through the summer, with a slight drop to the 85 cent
U.S. level by December. "This change in the Canadian dollar may be
somewhat optimistic, given the current high interest rates around the
globe," he says. "Persistent strength of the Canadian dollar vis-a-vis
its U.S. counterpart limited the extent of price gains in Canadian hog
markets this spring," he adds.
The 1990 "bull " slaughter hog market stalled during the second
quarter of the year, conc?.uding one of the most rapid periods of the
price increases in the last decade. Demand drove the price rally's
early stages through the winter. "By the second quarter, large
year-over-year declines in hog slaughter drove prices further upwards.
Eventually, consumer resistance to high retail level prices pressured
prices back to more sustainable levels, but not before record high
prices were recorded in U.S. markets during the final week of May." he
says .
Alberta's producer payment price for Index 100 hogs during the
second quarter averaged $1.65/kg, 34 per cent higher than the average
for the April to June, 1989.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
6
Hog prices to remain strong (cont'd)
"Canadian slaughter hog prices were definitely high enough to push
producer returns into the black. For the first time in two years, no
payout was announced for hogs under the national tripartite
stabilization program," he says.
Large declines in slaughter hog output occurred everywhere in
Canada except Alberta in the second quarter. Across the nation, there
was a nine per cent decline in total output. Provincially , production
was down only a single percentage point from 1989 levels. "Reduced July
marketings of slaughter hogs suggest Alberta's hog industry is also
entering a period of lower production," notes Cietz.
30
Contact: Ron Gietz
427-5376
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, 1990
For immediate release
/
Slaughter cattle supply predicted tight this fall and winter
A number or indicators point the way to a tight supply of slaughter
cattle in Alberta through the tall and winter says an Alberta
Agriculture market analyst.
in a quarterly "Livestock Situation and Outlook", Ron Gietz says
five trends show growing evidence of the tight supply. Leading the list
is a record-breaking pace- -up 16 per cent- -of cattle slaughter exports.
"This figure defies some forecasts that a new slaughter facility in the
province would reduce the volume of fed cattle exports. After a year's
operation, large numbers of live cattle are still going south." he says.
A scarcity of fed cattle in nearby U.S. markets have American buyers
looking north for supplies. As well, the lack of harmonized grading and
inspection systems still favors live trade at the expense of the beef
trade , he says .
Other factors in the potential tight supply are a nine per cent
increase in cattle slaughter and a halving of slaughter imports into the
province during the first half of the year. "Add in, that feeder cattle
imports are about one-third less and out-of -province feeder shipments
are up 44 per cent, and you're left with a shortfall, maybe as much as
over 200,000 head through the fall and winter," says Gietz.
Two factors temper the likely shortage, he says. Recent beef herd
expansion produced about 100,000 more feeder cattle in last year's crop.
As well, he says, slaughter and export trends should ease during the
second half of the year. "The end result of this tight local supply
shapes up as favorable to fed cattle prices," he says.
The main point of fed cattle price uncertainty is what happens in
the U.S. market through August and September. Gietz says he favors the
view U.S. fed cattle prices will be under some pressure through August,
but not drop below 1989 price levels. September, he adds, will be a
transition month leading into tighter supplies and higher prices for the
final three months of the year.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
8
Slaughter cattle supply predicted tight this tall and winter (cont'd)
"This U.S. outlook translates into fed cattle prices in Alberta
running above 1989 levels for the remainder of the year. The major
unknown, once again, is the value of the Canadian dollar," says Gietz.
With a strong Canadian dollar, Gietz predicts third quarter prices in
the $80 to $84 per hundredweight (cwt.) range moving higher to between
$83 and $87 in the final quarter and down a dollar at each end of the
range for the first quarter of 1991. Alberta fed cattle prices during
the second quarter averaged three per cent above 1989 levels.
Gietz notes the continuing strength of the Canadian dollar
vis-a-vis its American counterpart prevented the market here from
approaching record high levels of 198/ 's second quarter.
Feeder cattle prices posted large increases from April through June
led by an extremely buoyant American market. This recent price
strength, coupled with weakness in barley prices have improved the
outlook for the fall feeder run, he says. Gietz has revised his outlook
upwards and predicts a $95 to $100/cwt. range for 800 to 900 pound
steers; $110 to $105/cwt. ror 600 to 700 pound steers; and, a $105 to
$115/cwt. range for 500 to 600 pound steers.
Price strength was also reflected in the national tripartite
stabilization program. Payments were announced for only a single
month- - $10 . 83 per head in May- -for slaughter cattle.
During the second quarter Alberta beef production patterns
continued to run contrary to trends in other provinces. "Steady
increases in cattle feeding activity and fed cattle production continue
to be the dominant aspect of Alberta's beef industry," he says.
Gietz also notes if the cattle slaughter in eastern Canada
continues at its present pace for the remainder of 1990, the region will
record its smallest slaughter numbers since 1961.
30
Contact: Ron Gietz
427-5376
AGRI-i
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 13, 1990
For immediate release
9
Slow turnaround rorecast lor lamb prices
Despite a dismal lirst hall ot 1990, there are some signs a slow
turnaround is coming for Alberta lamb producers says an Alberta
Agriculture market analyst.
"Currently beel and pork prices are running at or near historical
highs in both Canada and the United States," says Jo Ann Cmoluch.
"Although this doesn't mean large numbers of consumers are expected to
switch to lamb, it does give some assurance present lamb consumers won't
turn away from lamb and might even increase their lamb consumption."
Cmoluch forecasts the third quarter Lambco bid range at between $59
and $62 per hundredweight with the fourth quarter range a dollar lower
at each end.
Large slaughter volumes in the U.S. have had a detrimental effect
on Alberta markets. American slaughter volumes have run about five per
cent ahead of 1989 totals. The overall weak condition of the American
sheep industry has been reflected in feeder lamb prices that are
currently below slaughter prices, she says.
The extent of price declines in slaughter lamb markets during the
second quarter of 1990 revealed the full impact of an oversupply of
sheep in the U.S. and to a lesser extent in Canada, she says. "Without
adjusting for inflation, prices producers have been receiving tor their
market lambs haven't been this low since the mid-1970s." While the
Easter holiday season did push bid ranges slightly higher- -between $69
and $ 72/cwt . - - than during the first quarter, prices didn't hit the
"spike" usually associated with the season, she adds.
Federally and provincially inspected slaughter volumes were two per
cent higher in the second quarter this year than in 1989. The Alberta
total was 21,218 head.
30
Contact : Jo Ann Cmoluch
427-4002
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, 1990
For immediate release
K)
July wet, except in northern Alberta
July precipitation was kind to most Alberta farmers says Alberta
Agriculture's weather resource specialist.
"Generally, farmers saw good moisture trom rains. There was some
Hooding in central Alberta in early July. In contrast, there were hot
dry conditions in the Peace River Region," says Peter Dzikowski , oi the
conservation and development branch.
Heavy rainfall in early July, especially in central Alberta,
contributed to precipitation amounts ranging up to 250 per cent of the
monthly normal in some locations, he says. Edmonton International
Airport reported 149.3 mm during the month. This was 163 per cent of
normal for July. Among other stations reporting higher than monthly
average totals were Claresholra at 96 mm, 251 per cent of the norm, and
Lloydminster at 142.9 mm, 181 per cent of the July average. (See
attached map . )
The Peace River region was drier than normal for July with rainfall
totals about half of normal. Peace River, tor example, reported 23.9 mm
of precipitation, 40 per cent of the monthly normal. Grande Prairie
reported 38.7 mm, 59 per cent of normal.
Temperatures were near normal for the month. In early July and
mid-month, temperatures were cooler than normal. Warm temperatures were
recorded the second and last weeks of July. Average monthly
temperatures were about one degree above normal in the Peace River
region, near normal in central regions and close to one degree cooler
than the average in southern Alberta, he says.
Hot and dry conditions, including record breaking temperatures,
continued into early August in all regions of the provice, he says.
30
Contact: Peter Dzikowski
422-4385
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
TOTAL PRECIPITATION
in millimetres
FOR THE PERIOD:
JULY 1 - 31, 1990
Note: M = Missing
Percent of 1951 - 1980 Averoge in Brackets
Bos<»d on unverified preliminary teleq/ophic data
from Atmo^heric Environment Service
Liberia
AGRICUI TURf
Conservation and Development Branch
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, lyyu
For immediate release
12
Harvesting garden vegetables
Succulent corn and the sweetness ol vine ripened tomatoes are two
rewards of a summer vegetable garden says an Alberta Agriculture
special ist .
"Knowing when those vegetables are ready to harvest or how to ripen
vegetables picked before a frost are two common question gardeners ask
us," says Pam North, information officer at the Alberta Tree Nursery and
Horticulture Centre. "Most ol the common questions are about corn,
tomatoes, onions, squash and pumpkins," she adds.
One indication corn is ready to eat is dry, brown corn silk. Cobs
should be checked to see if there are kernels to the tip, indicating the
cob is full. Kernels should be at the milk stage.
"Check by piercing a kernel with you fingernail . If a white milky
liquid squirts out, then the corn is ripe. If the liquid is clear, then
the corn is still immature. If it's lumpy, then the cob is over-mature.
While still edible, the over-mature corn won't be as sweet," she says.
Corn not used immediately after it's picked should be cooled, she
adds. Cooling will preserve sweetness, as sugar is converted to starch
as soon as the corn is harvested. The corn can be refrigerated or
soaked in ice water.
Vine ripened tomatoes are another popular garden item. North says
gardeners can promote vine ripening by pruning new flowers and topping
staking varieties after August 1 .
"Pruning flowers and topping the plants will allow the plants to
put energy into the existing fruit," she says.
Although vine-ripen tomatoes are a goal, sometimes the late summer
and early fall weather doesn't co-operate so, tomatoes have to be
harvested when they are green.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Harvesting garden vegetables (cont'd)
1 5
"Tomatoes will ripen indoors, but keep them in a sunny windowsill
rather than wrapping them in paper and storing them in a box. Sun
ripened tomatoes will have 50 per cent more vitamin C than those ripened
in the dark," she notes.
Pruning vines to prevent flowering after August 1 on winter squash
and pumpkin plants, will also encourage those vegetables to ripen.
Squash is mature when a thumbnail can't break the skin of the squash,
she adds.
Onions are ready to harvest when the tops fall over naturally.
"Breaking over the tops is not recommended because those onions won't
mature properly or store as well .
"To promote maturity, withhold water after August 15. Also, you
can Lift onions slightly with a garden fork to break the feeder roots,"
says North.
After harvest the onions need to be cured at a warm temperature (26
to 30 degrees Celsius) for a week to ten days. The tops will dry and
the skin will get papery, and the onions will store better, she says.
Onions should be stored at zero to three degrees Celsius.
For more information about harvesting, ripening and storing
vegetables, contact North at the Alberta Tree Nursery and Horticultural
Centre in Edmonton at 422-1789.
30
Contact: Pam North
422-1789
AGRI-I
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, 1990
For immediate release
New field services assistant deputy minister appointed
Alberta Agriculture has a new assistant deputy minister officially
at the helm of the field services sector.
"I'm pleased to announce Irene Leavitt is confirmed in her
appointment of assistant deputy minister, taking on duties she has held
in an acting capacity since early May," says Ben McEwen, Alberta
Agriculture's deputy minister.
The field services sector includes
the rural services division (agricultural
education, agricultural engineering, home
economics, agricultural and community
services and 4-H branches), the
information services division and the
department's six administrative regions.
"Mrs. Leavitt brings invaluable
experience to her new position through her
many years of service within the sector
she will now head," says McEwen.
Leavitt started work for the
department as a district home economist in
1958. She worked out of the Claresholm
and Calgary office from then until 1973. IRENE LEAVITT
She worked at the regional level for three years counselling and
advising farm families through the federal Small Farm Development
Program. Between 1976 and 1987, she headed the home economics and 4-H
division. Most recently, she held the position of rural services
division director from 1987 until earlier this year.
Leavitt says she looks forward to continuing work with producers,
farm families and rural organizations. "My career has been highlighted
by meeting and working with the people of Alberta's agriculture and food
industry. It's been gratifying to see people reach their goals and know
the small ways you've been involved in their success," she says.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
New field services assistant deputy minister appointed (cont'd)
15
The three months she's spent in the acting role gave her a glimpse
of her new responsibilities. "I'm looking forward to the opportunities
and challenges presented in working with the diverse and complex field
services sector. I'm confident about the abilities of the sector's
staff, and look forward to working with them and the industry," she
says .
Leavitt's appointment came shortly after she received a Canadian
Society of Extension honorary life membership award. The award
recognizes persons who merit national attention for noteworthy
accomplishments in extension or teaching. Length, dedication and
noteworthy service in the field of extension along with other
outstanding achievements and peer recognition are award criteria.
Recipients must be nominated by five of their peers.
"It was a thrill and privilege to be honored by my peers and
fellow extension workers. It's very fulfilling to receive this kind of
recognition," Leavitt says.
Leavitt was cited for placing emphasis on improved farm management
practices, increasing the profile of 4-H and home economics and her role
in developing a strategic direction for Alberta Agriculture. In
announcing the award, the society said: "Her dedication and work ethics
are standards for others to follow. Irene Leavitt combines technical
expertise with experience, confidence, judgement, ambition, leadership,
drive, a natural sense for smart decision making and the ability to play
effectively on a team".
Throughout the years, she has also taken an active role in a number
of professional and other organizations including the Canadian Society
of Extension, the Canadian 4-H Council and the Alberta Home Economics
Association. She received a distinguished service award from the
Alberta Home Economics Association this April.
Leavitt is originally from Saskatchewan and is a graduate of the
University of Saskatchewan's BSc in home economics program.
30
Contact :
Ben McEwen
42 7-2145
Irene Leavitt
42 7-2440
AGRI-i
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 20, 1990
For immediate release
L6
Agri-News briefs
COMBATING CUCUMBER SCAB
Garden clean-up and using new cucumber cultivars are two ways to
battle a cucumber fungus that appears in many gardens during the summer
says an Alberta Agriculture horticulturist. "While cucumber scab is
fairly common, warm humid weather brings more cases of the fungus to our
attention," says Para North, information officer at the Alberta Tree
Nursery and Horticulture Centre. Symptoms of cucumber scab can be found
on both leaves and fruit. The most noticeable damage is on the fruit,
with the small water soaked spots the first signs of cucumber scab. The
spots can eventually cover the entire fruit. On larger cucurabers , the
lesions look tan or corky. Humid weather produces spores that give the
spots a greyish-green color. A brownish liquid sometimes is exuded and
crystallizes. Pale brown spots may appear on the leaves. A protective
fungicide, benomyl , can be used to control the spread of the disease.
"Before you spray, note the number of days required between spraying and
harvest," cautions North. "If you want to prevent cucumber scab next
year, there are steps you can take. Sanitation is very important.
Remove all cucumber vines and dispose of them. Don't dig or till them
back into the garden," she says. Rotation is also important. "Don't
plant cucurabers in that spot for at least three years," she advises.
She also says to try new cultivars that are resistant or tolerant to
cucumber scab. This information is given in seed catalogues and on some
seed packages. For more information, contact Pam North at 422-1789.
1990 FERTILIZER, HERBICIDE AND GRAIN SEEDING CUSTOM RATES
Custom charges in 1990 for applying fertilizer and herbicides and
seeding grain were very similar to last year's rates. A province -wide
survey completed by Alberta Agriculture's statistics branch in July
shows no significant changes to either higher or lower rates, says Craig
Edwards, of the farm business management branch in Olds. The survey,
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
1990 FERTILIZER. HERBICIDE AND GRAIN SEEDING CUSTOM RATES (cont'd)
conducted by Maureen Whitlock, includes custom rates for applying
granular and liquid fertilizer by airplane, floaters, truck mount, pull
type and air seeder applicators. The most common rates charged were
between $2.25 and $3.50 per acre. Aerial liquid herbicide application
cost between $2.50 and $4.35 per acre. Higher rates charged were tor
most water used per acre. Applications by trucks, floaters and pull
types ranged between $2.25 and $3 per acre. Seeding by disc and
hoe-drills, air drills and air seeders ranged between $3 to $10 per
acre, with the most common rate between about $6 and $7 per acre. The
detailed report is available by contacting Edwards in Olds at 556-4248
or Whitlock in Edmonton at 427-4011.
GREAT PLAINS CLIMATE CHANGE AND VARIABILITY SYMPOSIUM IN CALGARY
Alberta Agriculture Minister Ernie Isley will give the keynote
address to delegates at a Canada-United States symposium on the impact
of climatic change and variability in the Great Plains. The symposium,
September 11 through 13 in Calgary, will bring together managers,
planners and scientists who are concerned about the effects of climate on
the resource base of the North American Great Plains region.
Presentations will address possible regional and international impacts
of global warming in the region and examine the vulnerability of the
Great Plains to climatic variability and change in finer detail.
Following plenary sessions, the symposium will break into working groups
that will look at agriculture, water resources, forestry, wetlands and
wildlife, energy, transportation and recreation and rangelands. The
symposium is a follow-up to an earlier joint conference held in Chicago
in 1988 that examined climate change in the Great Lakes region. It's
sponsored by Environment Canada's Canadian Climate Centre and Inland
Waters Directorate and the U.S. National Program Office of the Climate
Change Program. For more information, contact Rick Lawford in Saskatoon
at (306)975-5756, Ken Hubbard in Edmonton at 472-6706 or Tim Goos in
Edmonton at 495-3143.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briets (cont'd)
18
ROYAL BANK JOINS AIC IN TWO PROJECTS
Canadian agrologists will benefit from two projects the Royal Bank
has undertaken with the Agricultural Institute of Canada (AIC). The
bank has become a charter member of a new research foundation set-up by
the AIC to help scientists present position papers. Through a $50,000
five year contribution from the bank, professional agrologists across
the nation will find it easier to keep up to date on current
agricultural information. The AIC represents over 5,000 professional
agrologists in 19 member organizations across Canada. Throughout its
history, the AIC has collected and analyzed information on current
issues. The Royal Bank and AIC also joined together in sponsoring a
memorial scholarship honoring a pioneer in agriculture finance. Doug
McRorie had a close involvement with the AIC and spent 22-years with the
Royal Bank. Through his guidance, the bank introduced using
professional agrologists in agricultural financing. McRorie passed away
in September, 1989. The memorial scholarship fund will provide a
scholarship to each agricultural faculty in Canada. Both announcements
were made at the recent AIC annual convention in Penticton. For more
information, contact Terry Hockaday in Calgary at 252-5822.
BIOFERTILIZER RESEARCH FUNDED
Esso Chemical Canada is expanding research and development efforts
into a variety of biof ertili zer for wheat and canola with assistance
from the Western Economic Diversification program and the Alberta
Agricultural Research Institute. Both are contributing just over
$200,000 to the project. It's the first project in Alberta to receive
assistance through the National Agricultural Biotechnology Initiative.
Preliminary research by Esso indicates biof ertil izers could enhance crop
yields by more than 10 per cent putting more than $100 million in the
pockets of Western Canadian farmers. The biof ertilizer is plant growth
promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) . The PGPRs increase crop yield by
enhancing fertilizer and moisture absorption. Because they occur
naturally in soil, they're environmentally friendly. For more
information, contact Ralph Christian in Edmonton, at 422-1072.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
19
THIRD ANNUAL 4-H P.D.I'. PROGRAM SUCCESSFUL
4-H members from all over Alberta enjoyed the People Developing
People (PDP) '90 program in late July. This personal development camp
for 13 and 14 year olds took place at the Alberta 4-H Centre at Battle
Lake. The PDP delegates had many positive comments about their
experience. "PDP means fun, friends, learning about yourself and
others, signing mega autographs and taking tons of pictures!," said one
delegate. Another added "Overall PDP was a 12 out of 10." The theme of
the program, "Being Part of the Big Picture", directed delegates to
examine themselves and their relationship to the world around them. In
small and large group settings, delegates explored topics such as self
concept, leisure, decision making, positive thinking, risk taking and
environmental issues. One unique aspect of the PDP program is the
special interest sessions. Each 4-Her chooses two of these sessions
during the week and have an opportunity to give suggestions about what
they'd like to do in their sessions. This year's special interest
session choices included kite making, creative arts, movie making,
outdoor camping, game shows, and outdoor recreation.
In its third year, PDP is made possible by sponsors: Alberta Wheat
Pool, United Grain Growers, Agriculture Canada, Alberta Agriculture and
Husky Oil. For more information contact, Anita Anderson at the 4-H
branch at 422-4444.
IDENTIFY EDIBLE WILD PLANTS WITH VIDEO AID
An hour long video now available for loan through Alberta
Agriculture's Film Library can help you to identify edible wild plants.
Renowned botanist and author Jim Duke and Indiana University instructor
Jim Meuninck take viewers afield, foraging for useful wild botanicals.
Learn to identify 100 edible wild plants, discover new recipes, make
herbal teas, sample "berry-delicious" desserts and identify poisonous
plants. For lending information, write the Film Library at 7000-113
Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6H bT6 and ask for "Edible Wild Plants" (VT
930-26) .
30
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO CO
August 21, 1990
For immediate release
SEP 1 2 1990
This Week
Alberta beef production environmentally friendly 1
Beef's fifth quarter value 4
Beef part of balanced diet 6
Farmers' Advocate assists with MUST program 8
Battle of the Breeds new feature at Spruce Meadows 10
Horse and horsemanship clinic part of Equi-Fair 12
Horse Improvement Program identifies best in Alberta horses 13
Alberta Agriculture veterinary lab fees change 15
Briefs 16
/dlberra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch Phone: (403) 427-2121
August 27, 1990
For immediate release
1
Alberta beef production environmentally friendly
Cattle and beef have been much maligned lately, and haven't
deserved the reputation some people have tried to give them says an
Alberta Agriculture specialist.
"People who are aren't fully familiar with how beef is produced and
who haven't looked at alL of the issues which must be considered when
assessing the impact of beef production on the environment, have made
statements founded on partial truths," says Ross Gould, of the beef
cattle and sheep branch. These partial truths have included: beef
production is an inefficient use of resources because the amount of feed
needed per pound of carcass beef; beef production is immoral because
their feed would be better used to feed a starving world; and, beef
production should be limited because cows produce methane, a greenhouse
gas that changes our climate.
"When each of this statements is considered together with other
important environmental issues and all the facts about beef production,
the conclusion is quite different," he says.
Beef production, like all human activity, says Gould, does have an
impact on the environment. "Negative aspects, such as methane
production have been overblown. Methane from beef cattle does
contribute in a very small way to the greenhouse gases. But it's just
one source and not a major source. The North American cattle population
contributes less than 0.2 per cent of greenhouse gases in the
atmosphere. Far more critical is burning of plant and fossil fuels."
Other sources of methane include rice paddies, swamps and muskeg.
Termites and other wood digesting insects are a major source of
atmospheric methane, he adds. The most rapidly growing source of
methane in the environment is from garbage disposal at landfill sites.
At the same time, beef production's positive role in sustainable
agriculture has been overlooked, he says. Crop rotation systems with
grasses and legumes are one effective way of preventing soil erosion and
increasing soiL organic matter.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
2
AJ berta beet production environmentally triendly (cont'd)
"Beet cattle and other ruminants make an important contribution to
conserving and improving our soil resource by converting grasses and
legumes t rom crop rotations into a productive crop.
"Without the income from these 'grass convertors', most farmers
wouldn't be able to attord the cost ot crop rotation systems. This is
one reason forage rotations got Lett out ot cash crop farming during the
19/Os and early 1980s when returns from beef production were very low,"
he says .
The grass convertor cow also makes more ot Alberta's occupied
farm land capable ot food production. About half, or 23./ million
acres, of Alberta's farm land is in range, pasture and hay. "Most of
this land wouldn't produce food without a ruminant animal to consume the
grass," says Gould.
Cattle and other ruminants are different than other meat animals
because most ot their teed- -grass, hay and straw- -are types of plant
material non-ruminants, including humans, can't digest. This limits the
amount of grain necessary in beef production.
"While it's true the beef production system can take a total of 12
pounds of teed per pound of live beef, the typical finished beef animal
in the system will only have consumed 2.2 pounds ot that feed as grain.
This is because the cow that produced the calf will eat very little
grain and the typical finished steer or heifer will be on a high grain
diet for about three and halt months of its 16 month life," he says.
A close comparison of feed efficiency between cattle and other meat
animals also casts beef in a favorable light. "The most valid
assessment of meat production efficiency is a comparison of feed grain
consumed per pound ot muscle tissue produced," says Gould.
A typical grade A steer's carcass has 60 per cent muscle tissue.
This translates into 38 per cent of the steer's live weight. In
comparison, muscle makes up 36 per cent of the live weight of a hog and
32 per cent of the live weight of a chicken.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
1
Alberta beet production environmentally friendly (cont'd)
In terms of feed consumption, the steer would have consumed 6.3
pounds of grain per pound of edible meat, a pig 8.2 pounds and a chicken
b.9 pounds. "These figures show the efficiency of converting feed grain
to edible meat are very similar for each of our major meat species,"
points out Gould.
Feeding cattle grain also effects the taste of beef. Scientists
have proven feeding grain to cattle improves the taste and tenderness of
their meat. "These qualities are what the consumer wants, so it's
important for marketing the product," he notes.
Some people will still ask, why feed grain to cattle when there's
world hunger, he says. "One reason is because humans and cattle
basically consume different grains. Human consumption is mostly wheat
and rice, while cattle primarily eat barley and corn.
"If there was a high enough human demand for feed quality grains to
raise the price to more than double current levels, much less would be
fed to cattle. Cattle have always been one way for farmers to realize a
return from their grain crops when surpluses depress prices.
"But beyond this, is the simple fact that world hunger is a
political and economic problem, not a production problem."
30
Contact: Ross Gould
427-5083
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
6
August 21, 1990
For immediate release
Beef's lifth quarter value
Most people associate beef with backyard barbecued steaks or a
family Sunday roast beef dinner, and don't realize beef's products
extend beyond the popular cuts of meat seen in their local supermarket.
"There's a wide range of variety meats, other edible by-products
plus inedible by-products and pharmaceuticals that come from beet
cattle," says Kathy Keeler of the Beef Information Centre in Calgary.
"Most people don't have any idea how many things they use in a day are
beef by-products of some sort, whether it's a leather belt, their
lipstick, soap or an allergy medicine."
A 1,000 pound animal will yield about 43b pounds of retail beef
including steaks, roasts, ground beef and stewing meat. Specialty meats
such as liver, kidney, sweetbreads, heart, tongue and tripe are
additional types of meat available from a beef animal .
Other less well-known edible by-products include: oleo stock,
derived from beef fat for margarine and shortening; oleo stearine, used
to make chewing gum and certain candies; gelatin from bones and horns
for marshmal 1 ows , ice cream, canned meats and gelatin products; and,
natural sausuage casing from intestines.
Inedible by-products cover a range of uses. The best known of
these by-products is leather. Hides also supply felt and the base for
insulation materials. Fine ear hair is used to make artist brushes.
"Many everyday items have an ingredient derived from beef," Keeler
says. For example, beef tallow provides glycerine for lipstick, face
and hand creams, toothpaste and cough medicine. Commericial soaps,
industrial cleaners, shampoos, liquid soap and detergent also are
derived from tallow. Inedible fats are also used for candles, fabric
softeners, automobile tires, adhesives, crayons, chalk, explosives, inks
and matches.
Bones, horns and hooves are an ingredient source for buttons, bone
china, piano keys, glues, fertilizers and animal feeds. They also
supply non-edible gelatin for photographic film, wallpaper, sandpaper,
toothbrushes and violin strings.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Beef's filth quarter value (cont'd)
Cattle are also walking store houses tor hundreds ol
pharmaceuticals, says Keeler. "The list ot pharmaceuticals is lengthy.
These drugs range from treatments ol minor ailments like an upset
stomach to blood clots in heart vessels. Blood products are important
to cancer and other research. Insulin for diabetics was first taken
trom cattle pancreases.
"The many examples ot the good things besides meat that come trom
cattle shows how important cattle are to our way ot life, not just for
their contribution to balanced and healthy diets," says Keeler.
Economically speaking, the beet cattle industry is also a major
contributor to Alberta's economy, she adds. It's estimated to now
generate about $6 billion annually.
30
Contact : Kathy Keeler
275-5890
AGRI-i
Alberta Agriculture, Information Service's Division
August 27, 1990
For immediate release
6
Beef part of balanced diet
Reducing or removing beef from your diet, isn't a way to improve
your health says Alberta Agriculture's provincial food and nutrition
specialist .
"Most people are rightly concerned about the amount of fat in their
diet, but cutting out red meat entirely is an over reaction. Moderation
works, and that way you aren't missing any nutrients," says Aileen
Whitmore .
Protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins are among the nutrients in meat
necessary for a healthy diet. Beef is especially important for the iron
it supplies. "The iron in beef is easily absorbed by the body- -more
easily absorbed than the iron in fruits, vegetables, breads, cereals or
iron enriched vitamins," says Whitmore.
"Meat in your diet also increases the absorption of iron from other
foods," she adds, "So if you are on a calorie reduced diet, include beef
to help avoid iron deficiencies." Low fat cuts of beef include: round,
flank, ribeye, rump, sirloin, sirloin tip, stewing beef, strip loin
steak and wing steak.
Nor is the fat in beef, and other meats, all bad, she says. Fat
provides energy, aids in the absorption of fat soluble vitamins and
provides essential fatty acids.
"You also have to remember today's beef is lean. It's 50 per cent
leaner and has 21 per cent less cholesterol than it had lb years ago,"
she says. Lean means no more than 10 per cent of fat per serving as defined
by Consumer and Corporate Affairs Canada nutrition labelling guidelines.
Furthermore, if you compare beef to chicken without its skin and
fish, the ounce -to -ounce comparison of fat and cholesterol are very
similar, she says.
"If you still have concerns, remember a low fat diet doesn't have
to avoid beef and other red meats. Reducing fats can be accomplished by
cutting out unnecessary fats in a variety of ways." she adds.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
/
Beef part of balanced diet (cont'd)
Trim fat from steaks and buy well -trimmed cuts with slight
marbling, she advises. Cook meat so fat can drip away, avoid frying
that adds fat and calories. Also avoid gravy, sauces and breading.
But, reducing fat isn't limited to choosing and preparing beef and other
meats , she says .
"Drink skim milk instead of whole milk, use calorie reduced salad
dressing, have two slices of toast instead of a croissant or bake a
potato instead of having french fries.
"Think about the peanut butter sandwich before you make it. A 30
gram slice of beef has 108 fewer calories and 12 grams less fat than 30
mL of peanut butter," she says.
Read the label on processed products, she adds. "You can save both
fat intake and calories. Water packed tuna has 54 fewer calories and
six less grams of fat than tuna canned in oil . "
30
Contact: Aileen Whitmore
427-2412
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 21, 1990
For immediate release
8
Farmers' Advocate assists with MUST program
Alberta Agriculture's Farmers' Advocate's office can now assist
rural residents concerned about pollution of their domestic water source
from underground storage tank leaks.
"The Farmers' Advocate's office will be acting in conjunction with
Alberta Environment in the Management of Underground Storage Tanks
(MUST) project," says Cliff Downey, the Farmers' Advocate. "The program
will be handled in the same manner as our Water Well Restoration or
Replacement program."
Potential program applicants are rural residents who have reason to
believe their domestic water source has been polluted by leakage from
underground storage tanks that have been abandoned or are of unknown or
indefinite ownership.
"Before an application can be submitted, the resident has to
contact the service station, oil company or whoever they believe owns
the tank, to attempt settlement of alleged damages," says Downey.
If these attempts with the company are unsuccessful or if the
company involved is unknown, the applicant contacts Alberta
Environment's MUST project for an investigation. A report is then made
to the Water Well Restoration or Replacement: Committee. Downey notes
applications must be made within two years of the alleged damages.
"Applications won't normally be approved if the responsible party is
known and is still operating a business, since it would then be possible
to pursue the complaint in a different manner," he adds.
Because the program is designed to offset direct costs to restore
or replace a water well, vent a building or make other corrective
measures, the applicant must include all receipts for work completed
with the application. The applicant also must attend and present
evidence at a committee hearing held in his or her home area. The
committee includes the Farmers' Advocate as its chairman, the chairman
of the local agricultural development committee or another local
authority representative and a technical representative from the
environment department's groundwater protection branch.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Farmers' Advocate assists with MUST program (cont'd)
Following the hearing, the committee forwards its decision to
Alberta Environment. If the decision is in favor of the applicant, the
a payment is made by that department.
"All payments awarded under this program are ex gratia. In other
words, they are not made due to any legal or statutory obligation, so
decisions are final and not subject to appeal," says Downey.
Inquires about the program can be made at the Farmers' Advocate
office, 305, 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6 , 427-2433 or
the MUST Project, 14th floor. Standard Life Centre, 10405 Jasper
Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3N4 , 427-3943.
30
Contact: Cliff Downey
427-2433
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
LO
August 27. L990
For immediate release
Battle of the Breeds new feature at Spruce Meadows
Ten horse breeds will compete in eight skill testing events as part
of a showcase of Alberta horses at Spruce Meadows September b through 9.
"This new feature, Battle of the Breeds, will be an exciting and
fun part of the Alberta Breeds for the World showcase. The competitive
events will run through the entire fair with a winner crowned on the
final day," says Bob Coleman of Alberta Agriculture's horse industry
branch .
Teams of tour horses and riders will compete in trail riding,
barrel racing, team relays, jumping, obstacle driving, a champagne ride
and a free style event. "Free style is much like a short program in
figure skating done with music and in costume to entertain and inform
the audience," notes Coleman.
Alberta Breeds for the World features 20 horse breeds providing
visitors with an opportunity to see and find out more about the
different breeds. Breed association representatives will be on hand
with booths and exhibits. Three demonstration rings will show off the
diverse abilities of the various horses from a child's pony through
sport horses to heavy horses. A sales barn and horsemanship seminars
are also part of the activities in the Breeders Hall.
The Masters show jumping competition and the Equi-Fair equine trade
show are the two other major attractions at Spruce Meadows.
"The Masters quite simply is one of the best show jumping events in
the world, a genuine outdoor equine spectacle with Olympic caliber
riders and horses. The million dollars in prize money also makes it one
of the richest events," says Coleman. Sunday afternoon's du Maurier
international is the crowning event of the international show jumping
activities .
"Whether you're an equine enthusiast or not, or just enjoy horses a
little, the jumping competitions are well worth seeing," he says.
This year's Equi-Fair trade show has been expanded with larger
space in its USA Pavilion, a new British Columbia Pavilion and with New
Zealand represented for the first time.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Battle of the Breeds new feature at Spruce Meadows (cont'd)
Coleman describes Equi-Fair as the best equine trade fair in North
America with leading edge technology on display along with clothing,
art, management systems and equipment from worldwide exhibitors.
Spruce Meadows is located one km south of Calgary on Highway 2 and
two km west on Highway 22X.
For more information about these activities contact the horse
industry branch in Calgary at 297-6650, in Edmonton at 427-8905 or
Spruce Meadows at 254-3200.
30
Contact :
Bob Coleman
436-9150
Les Burwash
297-6650
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August II, 1990
For immediate release
Horse and horsemanship clinics part ol Equi-Kair
Horsemanship clinics will be offered through the entire t 1 ve daws
of this year's Alberta Breeds for the World at Spruce Meadows.
"We've expanded the number of clinics to run through the weekend,"
says Bob Coleman, of Alberta Agriculture's horse industry branch.
Horse enthusiasts will have the opportunity to learn more about
the basics of grooming, the Horse Improvement Program evaluation system,
what to expect from riding lessons and using acupuncture on horses
through free educational seminars. Each seminar will be held at least
twice, with the exception of the acupuncture, between September 5 and 9.
"With more people getting involved in horse sport, we recommend
they start by getting lessons to learn how to ride properly and to help
them enjoy the sport more," says Coleman. This seminar will focus on
what students in riding programs should expect from their lessons.
"Parents with children in riding programs or parents contemplating the
idea will find this seminar very worthwhile," he adds.
Another seminar will explain the provincial Horse Improvement
Program evaluation system. Horses are evaluated against a breed
standard and scored on both conformation and performance. Identifying
superior horses and breeders is a major goal of the program.
Al Klide, from the University of Pennsylvania, will share his
knowledge about using acupuncture on horses.
More information about the seminars is available by contacting the
horse industry branch in Calgary at 297-6650 or in Edmonton at 427-8905.
30
Contact :
Bob Coleman
427-8905
Les Burwash
297-6650
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 27. 1990
For immediate release
Horse Improvement Program identifies best in Alberta horses
An annual program to identify superior horses, breeders and
trainers in the province runs two consecutive September weekends at the
Westerner in Red Deer.
Eleven breeds will be scored in the five categories of the Horse
Improvement Program (HIP) judging system. The system allows for
independent evaluation that is different and more complete than what is
associated with show ring judging, says Bob Coleman, of Alberta
Agriculture's horse industry branch.
"It's a really unique type of evaluation. Owners can see through
the individual category scores what judges really liked about their
horse. A horse with really strong characteristics, and maybe some
weaker characteristics that need to be corrected in a breeding program,
can be scored accordingly," he says.
"The program is also different from a typical horse show because
horses are judged against a breed standard rather than against other
horses in the ring," adds Coleman.
The horse industry branch, in co-operation with a committee from
participating breed associations, has been running the program for the
last 16 years.
The 1990 program features: Arabian, partbred Arabian and walking
horse classes on September 15; American Saddlebred, Morgan, sport horse
and Welsh pony and Cob classes on September 16; Quarter Horse and Pinto
classes on September 22; and, Appaloosa and Paint classes on September
23.
Two horse show judges and an equine veterinarian score each horse
on conformation and performance. Conformation includes five categories
front limbs; hind limbs; head, neck, body and balance; movement; and.
type. Performance patterns test the athletic ability, temperament and
training potential of the young horses. Score sheet appraisals are
mailed to the entrants.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Horse Improvement Program identities best in Alberta horses (cont'd)
One of the goals of the Horse Improvement Program is education.
Coleman says it's hoped the evaluations will be used as an educational
tool by breeders and owners.
"One of the program's overall goals is improving the quality of
Alberta bred horses. The program is achieving that through both
education and identification of superior horses, breeders and trainers,"
he says. He adds establishing markets for Alberta bred horses is
another program objective.
Alberta born and Alberta owned rules are in effect in the classes.
Program judges will be: Wayne Houston, a professional trainer from
British Columbia; Bob Mowrey, horse specialist at North Carolina State
University; Don Topliff, Oklahoma State University professor; Dennis
Sigler, a judge and trainer from Texas; and, Hanno Dohn , an accomplished
horseman from Germany.
The deadline for entering the program is September 1. For more
information, contact the horse industry branch in Calgary at 297-6650 or
in Edmonton at 427-8905.
30
Contact :
Bob Coleman
427-8905
Les Burwash
297-6650
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 21, 1990
For immediate release
1 >
Alberta Agriculture veterinary lab lees change
Certain laboratory user fees and a new fee category will take
effect September 1 at Alberta Agriculture animal health division
veterinary laboratories.
"The increased fees and a new fee category for animals other than
food producing and pet species is a necessary reponse in a time of
fiscal restraint," says Nick Nation, head of the department's veterinary
pathology branch.
The laboratory user fee for whole carcasses of agriculture and food
animals will be $25 or $15 for a portion of a carcass. The charge for
poultry from a flock of fewer than 300 birds is $15, $25 if from a flock
with more than 300 birds.
The new fee for examination of dogs and cats will be $75 for whole
carcasses of either or $50 for a portion of a carcass.
Each consignment of laboratory animal, wildlife and exotic species
will be $35. "This $35 charge applies to either carcasses or portions
from all non-farm and non-dog and cat categories," says Nation. "These
charges now apply for all non-Alberta government submissions, including
submissions from universities, zoos and federal and municipal
governments which have been exempted in the past."
There will be a $100 fee for any post mortem examination for
insurance purpose and or legal disputes, he adds.
Milk samples will now be $10 for the first sample and $2 for each
additional sample in the consignment. The same fee structure applies to
blood samples for clinical pathology. Blood for serology is $10 for the
first antigen test and $3 for each additional antigen test per sample.
Aleutian disease testing in mink is $10 for the first blood sample and
20 cents for each additional sample in a consignment.
30
Contact: Nick Nation
436-8903
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
August 27. 1990
For immediate release
16
Agri-News briefs
HIKE FOR FARM SAFETY
Alberta Women of Unifarm have launched their annual campaign asking
Alberta farm families to take a safety hike around their farm. Their
new activity booklet, "Take a Hike for the Safety of Our Country Kids",
encourages families to go around their farm together and point out
hazards. Activity booklets and farm safety stickers are available from
Alberta Agriculture district offices, Women of Unifarm directors or by
calling the Unifarm office in Edmonton at 451-5912. Included in the
package are stickers to write in local emergency telephone numbers and a
sticker with the toll-free poison control centre number, 1-800-332-1414.
Stickers can be used on the telephone, in the booklet or on farm
equipment. For more information, contact the Unifarm office at
451-5912.
CALL FIRST, BEFORE YOU CAN'T
Over the last year more than 2,300 incidents of damage to AGT
buried cables and service wires were reported. Those damages cost more
than a million dollars to repair and disrupted everything from local
telephone services to a national television signal . AGT and Alberta 1st
Call are reminding people to call before they do any sort of digging.
This includes farm operations such as deep tilling or subsoiling.
"Because we have a commitment to provide our customers with exceptional
service, we're very concerned about the impact damages to buried cable
can, and does, have on the customer's ability to access our
communications network," says Dale Wilson, AGT ' s cut cable liaison
officer. By calling Alberta 1st Call, buried facilities of all types
can be located before any excavation. This minimizes risks, reduces
damage and minimizes service interruptions. For example, in 1989 AGT
performed over 110,000 buried cable locates from requests received
through Alberta 1st Call. The location service is provided free of
charge. Two working days notice is required. Alberta 1st Call can be
reached toll-free at 1-800-242-3447.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
17
INFORMATION DIRECTORY AVAILABLE FROM OLDS
Alberta Agriculture's farm business management branch has updated a
publication listing sources of farm management information. "Catalogue
of Printed Farm Management Information from Alberta Agriculture", lists
material available from the department's statistics branch, production
economics branch, market analysis branch and farm business management
branch. Included is information about the department's "Publication
List", the primary listing for Alberta Agriculture publications. Most
of the publications listed in the catalogue are free to farmers.
Charges and subscription rates are shown where applicable. Mailing
addresses and telephone numbers of the branches are also provided. For
a copy of the catalogue, write Craig Edwards at the Farm Business
Management Branch, Box 2000, Olds, TOM 1P0 or call him at 556-4248. For
a copy of Alberta Agriculture's "Publications List", which covers all
farming topics including farm management, write to the Alberta
Agriculture Publications Office, 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H
5T6.
NUTRITION CONFERENCE IN CALGARY SEPT. 12-14
An annual conference for feed industry personnel, nutritionists,
extension workers, researchers and others interested in livestock
production and nutrition will be held in Calgary September 12 through
14. The 11th annual Western Nutrition Conference features an opening
day vitamin symposium. Among the topics on the conference agenda are:
using peas in swine diets, trace minerals and immunology, feeding the
equine athlete, selenium metabolism in the rumen, new methods of forage
evaluation, protein and energy intergration applications in Western
Canada, investigating nutrition problems, probiotics and using canola
and flaxseed for poultry. For registration and other information, call
Sheila at the University of Alberta at 492-3029.
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
HI « i • V\ 1
j
II
1
1
1
?
1
GO 00 GO 00 GO GO GO CO GO 00
September 3. 1990
For immediate release
This Week
Isley leads trade mission to Latin America 1
Where to find harvest weather forecasts 3
CARTT application deadline October 1 6
Child's pay could pay 7
Final honey tripartite payment approved 9
Briefs 10
Coming agricultural events 12
ydlbcrra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-2121
September 3. 1990
For immediate release
1
Isley leads trade mission to Latin America
Agriculture Minister Ernie Isley will embark on a two-week trade
mission to Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina and Mexico August 25 to September
11.
The mission's main objectives are: to enhance lines of
communication between Alberta and these countries; to review
agricultural issues and developments, including the Multilateral Trade
Negotiations (MTN) ; and, to further promote Alberta's advanced livestock
genetics and technology. Brazil, Argentina. Uruguay, Mexico and Canada
are all members of the CAIRNS group of countries promoting trade
liberalization in agriculture.
Although Isley has travelled to Mexico before in an official
capacity, this mission will be his first to Brazil, Argentina and
Uruguay. He will be accompanied by a number of key private sector
representatives .
The mission's first stop is Brasilia, Brazil, where Isley will meet
with the Chief of the Economic Department in the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs and the Minister of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform. In these
meetings, Isley will discuss international agricultural developments,
including MTN, bilateral co-operation, and agricultural trade
opportunities between Alberta and Brazil .
While in Brazil, the minister and his delegation will attend the
Expointer Livestock Show in Porto Alegre. The Expointer is the largest,
most important show of its kind in South America, and the Alberta cattle
breeders in attendance will find it useful for future trade contacts.
"All of these contacts in Brazil should cement Alberta-Brazil trade
relations which have seen significant advancement since an extremely
successful Brazilian cattle buying mission in Alberta this June." he
says .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
2
Isley leads trade mission to Latin America (cont'd)
From Brazil, the minister will travel to Montevideo, Uruguay,
Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Mexico City, Mexico, where he will conduct
meetings with his Latin American counterparts. Thev will be similar in
content and importance to the meetings in Brazil. Isley will also have
an opportunity to meet with a number of key industry figures from each
country and visit some local ranches.
The final stop is Zacatecas City, Mexico. During a previous
mission in October, 1989, a livestock co-operation memorandum of
understanding was signed with the state of Zacatecas and its cattlemen's
union. While in Zacatecas City, Isley will meet with the Governor of
Zacatecas to discuss developments or issues arising from this agreement.
Following these discussions, the minister will attend the Zacatecas
State Livestock Exhibition.
"As a result of our high standards and advanced level of
agricultural development and diversification, Alberta has gained a solid
reputation within the Latin American agricultural community. This trade
mission will further enhance this reputation, as well as open new
channels of co-operation and communication, both in specific areas of
trade and development and general trade policy issues," says Isley.
30
Contact: Arnold de Leeuw Doug Bienert
427-4241 427-4241
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 3. 1990
For immediate release
Where to find harvest weather forecasts
Farmers can dial the Alberta Farm Weather Line or listen to
Weatheradio Canada for weather forecasts to help schedule their harvest
operations says Alberta Agriculture's weather resource specialist.
"Producers can telephone one of six regional Farm Weather Lines for
the most current farm weather forecasts available." says Peter Dzikowski
of the conservation and development branch.
Alberta's Farm Weather Line, a co-operative service provided by
Alberta Agriculture and Environment Canada's Atmospheric Environment
Service, is in it's sixth season of operation. It brings farmers across
the province up-to-date agricultural weather forecasts. The service
expanded to six locations a year ago and also began year-round operation
last fall after operating only between April and October.
Over 138.000 calls have been made to the service during the first
seven months of 1990. "Continuous access to agricultural weather
forecasts on a year-round basis assist producers in making farming
decisions," he says.
Forecasts specific to each region are updated four times daily at
5:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Farmers call the weather
line in their region. Long distance charges do apply. The telephone
numbers are: Grande Prairie, 539-7654: Edmonton. 468-9196: Calgary,
295-1003; Lethbridge , 328-RAIN (7246); Medicine Hat. 526-6224; and.
Coronation, 57-TEMPS (578-3677).
"The popularity of the year-round line means farmers may sometimes
have trouble connecting with it. and get a busy signal. Farmers in the
Edmonton. Calgary and Lethbridge areas have the option of listening to
Weatheradio Canada instead," Dzikowski says.
Weatheradio Canada is a dedicated VHF-FM radio broadcast system
transmitted on a frequency of 162.4. 162.475 or 162.55 megahertz (MHz).
The Environment Canada service provides continuous, up-to-date weather
forecast information and weather warnings directly from its weather
office .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
4
Where to find harvest weather reports (cont'd)
"A special weatheradio receiver, which costs about $60, is needed
to receive the broadcast," Dzikowski points out.
The Weatheradio signal can be received within about 50 to 60 km of
Edmonton. Calgary and Lethbridge. he says. Since transmissions operate
by line of sight, reception may be poor in low-lying areas such as river
valleys. "If you are considering getting a weatheradio receiver make
sure it works at your location before you buy. If the signal is weak,
an external antenna may help," he says.
Dzikowski also recommends buying a receiver with a warning alert
feature and a battery back-up power source. Another important feature
to look for is a switch, instead of a dial, to select the broadcast
frequency .
For more information about the Farm Weather Line or Weatheradio
Canada, contact Dzikowski in Edmonton at 422-4385.
30
Contact: Peter Dzikowski
422-4385
Editor's note: Maps are attached outlining the areas of the regional
weather lines and the areas Weatheradio serves.
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
AGRI-I
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 3, 1990
For immediate release
6
CARTT application deadline October 1
October 1 is the next application deadline for project assistance
from the Canada\Alberta agreement on Soil, Water and Cropping Research
and Technology Transfer (CARTT) program.
"This application deadline is for projects starting after December
1. 1990." says Russell Horvey. provincial CARTT co-ordinator . Completed
application forms must be submitted to one of six regional soil
conservation co-ordinators by October 1.
Project proposals for demonstrations and awareness\technology
transfer activities may be submitted to CARTT by any producer, producer
organization, agricultural service board or any other organization
interested in promoting sound soil and water conservation practices.
"If you have any questions or concerns about the deadline date, a
project proposal or the CARTT approval process, please contact the
regional soil conservation co-ordinator in your area or your local
Alberta Agriculture regional office," he says.
Application forms are available from Alberta Agriculture district
offices, agricultural service board fieldraen. the Prairie Farm
Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) and Alberta Agriculture regional
offices .
The 1991 CARTT application deadlines for project proposals are:
February 1, for projects starting after April 1; June 1, for projects
starting after August 1; and, October 1. for projects starting after
December 1 .
CARTT 's objective is to develop and transfer appropriate
conservation tillage and cropping technology which will minimize soil
degradation and sustain economic crop production.
30
Contact: Russell Horvey
422-4385
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 3. 1990
For immediate release
/
Child's pay could pav
Paying your children for their work on the farm could increase your
net after-tax family income says an Alberta Agriculture farm management
economi st .
"Any small business may deduct employee wages as a cost of doing
business. For the farm family, this practice might be an overall
benefit." says Doug Barlund. of the farm business management branch in
Olds .
For example, take a farm business with a net income of $40,000.
The after- tax income would be $30,915, if all the income is claimed by
one person. "On the other hand, if the farmer claims $30,000 and pays
his 17 year old son $10,000 per year as an employee, the overall net
family income - -after taxes and salary- -becomes $34,016, an increase of
roughly 10 per cent," says Barlund. Paying the same $10,000 salary to a
spouse provides about a six per cent increase in after tax income for
the family, he adds.
While the process sounds simple, there are a number rules to
follow. The spouse, son or daughter must actually be doing work for the
farm business and the salary must be commensurate with the work being
done. "Consider paying what you'd have to pay someone else for the same
job , " he says .
As an employer, you must be registered with Revenue Canada for an
employer's account number to start submitting payroll deductions. If
you pay employees monthly, then you must submit monthly contributions of
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) . Unemployment Insurance Commission (UIC)
premiums and Income Tax. As well, employers submit year end pay
summaries along with T4 slips.
"Increased paperwork is a disadvantage, so are the added payroll
expenses. Those have to be weighed against other advantages. The
family's interest in farming may increase with monetary recognition of
everyone's work. Making CPP contributions will make your spouse and
dependent children over 18 eligible for the plan's retirement and
disability benefits," he says.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Child's pay could pay (cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture has a new factsheet, "Paying Wages to Family
Members-Is it Really Worth It?", that can help farm families decide if
their business could benefit from this practice. The factsheet is
available from the department's Publications Office at 7000-113 Street,
Edmonton. Alberta T6H 5T6 and quote Agdex number 823-3.
"The factsheet discusses the required payroll deductions and also
answers some common questions." says Barlund. For more information, he
can be contacted at the farm business management branch in Olds at
556-4245. He also recommends discussing salary options with an
accountant or farm business consultant.
30
Contact : Doug Barlund
556-4245
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 3. 1990
For immediate release
9
Final honey tripartite payment approved
Honey producers can expect a final tripartite stabilization payment
later this month.
The National Tripartite Honey Committee recently approved final
stabilization payments on honey sold during the 1989 crop year.
Producers enrolled in the national program will receive a final payment
of 1.78 cents per pound for honey sold between June 1. 1989 and May 31.
1990, says Lloyd Andruchow. head of Alberta Agriculture's national
tripartite speciality crops branch.
"Together with the interim payment approved earlier this year, the
total payment for 1989 crop sales amounts to $2,475 million," he says.
Honey producers have already received an interim payment of 3 cents
per pound for honey sold between June 1, 1989 and February 28, 1990.
This second payment will include the same interim payment on honey sold
during the remainder of the crop year. "We're expecting the second
payment to be processed during the latter part of September." he adds.
About 200 Alberta honey producers are eligible for the
stabilization payments. They'll receive a total of $1.1 million for
honey sold during the 1989 crop year. Alberta is the dominant honey
producing province nationally and accounted for 43 per cent of the honey
sales registered in the 1989 crop year, he notes.
Stabilization payments are triggered when market prices drop below
the support price. The 4.78 cent payment is the difference between the
set support price of 51.25 cents per pound and the average market price
of 46.47 cents.
Andruchow notes honey prices are better now. "Bulk honey prices
have improved significantly over the past year, rising from the 43 cent
level last August to the current price range of 53 to 55 cents."
Producers and both levels of government contribute to the
stabilization fund through quarterly premium payments.
30
Contact: Lloyd Andruchow
422-5879
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 3. 1990
For immediate release
Agri-News briefs
PEST BIOLOGICAL CONTROL WORKSHOP
The Alberta Environment Centre, in conjunction with Alberta
Agriculture, is holding a workshop on biological pest control in Canada.
The workshop is scheduled for October 11 and 12 in Calgary at the
Carriage House Inn. Use of natural enemies to control a wide range of
pests, from weeds to grasshoppers and from mosquitoes to forest insects,
will be discussed. Papers by biological control experts covering
progress in biological control in Canada, poster presentations with
updates on individual projects and discussions of current issues
affecting biological control are on the agenda. Anyone interested in
non-chemical methods of pest control, will find it an opportunity to
learn about what's happening in Canada and to meet researchers involved
in the field. For more information, contact Dr. A.S. McClary at the
Alberta Environmental Centre in Vegreville at 632-6761 (FAX 632-5475).
STANDARDS HANDBOOK FOR WEED AND BRUSH CONTROL
The Industrial Vegetation Management Association of Alberta (IVMAA)
has developed a first of its kind handbook with guidelines for safe
herbicide use. The "Handbook of Standards and Good Practices for
Industrial Vegetation Management" also includes information about
environmentally sound planning, operation of mechanical clearing
equipment and developing worker training and emergency response
programs. The handbook is the result of two years of extensive research
and consultations with over 100 industry members, government
representatives and environmentalists. Industrial vegetation management
affects thousands of hectares of land throughout urban and rural
Alberta. Sites where vegetation must be mechanically or chemically
controlled to reduce safety hazards and permit open access include parks,
highways, railways, powerline rights-of-way, oil and gas installations
and other industrial and public areas. For more information, and to
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
1 1
STANDARDS HANDBOOK FOR WEED AND BRUSH CONTROL (cont'd)
order copies of the handbook, contact the IVMAA. Box 9261. Station F.
Calgary. T2J 6X9 or call 253-7700 or FAX 253-7713.
COMPOSTING SEMINAR AT OLDS COLLEGE SEPT. 25
A timely seminar on composting is scheduled for Olds College
September 25. Keynote speaker Harry Hoitink. of Ohio State University,
will discuss the principles of composting, composting systems and the
benefits of composting in agriculture. "There is significant demand
from industry to address concerns regarding large volumes of organic
waste materials such as leaves, brush, grasses and kitchen waste." says
Geraldine Byrne, of Olds College extension services. Landscapers and
golf course managers are constantly faced with obtaining an inexpensive
source of fertile top soil. Compost is a possibility as a fertilizer
and soil conditioner says Byrne. Community groups are also expressing
interest in both the science of composting and in community composting
projects. Other seminar speakers are: Thorn Rogers, Alberta Environment
recycling co-ordinator . on a pilot project in Medicine Hat; Doug
MacLennan, environment consultant to the Ryley community project on soil
analysis, collecting and processing; Allan Yee , on Edmonton's composting
project from feasibility to tendering; and, Larry Finn, on invessel
composting. There will also be a panel discussion. To register,
contact Olds College extension services at 556-8344.
SOIL SAMPLING HOW-TO VIDEO
Fred is a soil sampler who finds out that there's a lot more to his
job than dumping dirt into a bag in a new Alberta Agriculture video.
"How 1 became a soil sampling expert" (VT 533) explains how lab analysis
is only as good as the sample submitted. This 13-minute production is
an entertaining look at the proper procedures in taking effective soil
samples. The video is available for loan from Alberta Agriculture
district offices as well as the Film Library in Edmonton. For more
information, write it at 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6 .
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Coming Agricultural Events
Olde Tyme Sheep Fair
Westerner
Red Deer September 8 9
Barry Wilson - 556-8202 - Olds
Crop Protection Institute of Canada annual
convention
Jasper Park Lodge
Jasper September 9-12
CPIC office - (416)622-9771 - Toronto, Ontario
Canada U.S. Symposium on climate change and
variability on the Great Plains
Westin Hotel
Calgary September 11-13
Tim Goos - 495-3143 - Edmonton
11th Western nutrition conference
Marlborough Inn
Calgary September 13-14
Shelia - 495-3029 - Edmonton
AgTechnology'90
Sheraton
St. Louis. Missouri September 17-20
AgBiotechnology News - (319)277-3599 - Cedar
Falls, Iowa
International Plowing Match
Brant County, Ontario September 18-22
John Fennel - (519)767-3506 - Guelph, Ontario
15th annual Poultry Servicemen's Workshop
Chateau Lake Louise
Lake Louise October 2 - 4
Rod Chernos - 948-8533 - Airdrie
23rd International Dairy Congress
Montreal, Quebec October 7 -12
Richard Stern - (613)238 41 16 - Ottawa, Ontario
Rural and small town Canada: Economic and
social reality conference
Congress Centre and Statistics Canada
Ottawa, Ontario October 17-19
Judy Buehler - (61 3)951 -3779 - Ottawa. Ontario
National Outstanding Young Farmers awards
Stampede Park
Calgary October 18-22
Don Stewart - 261 -01 62 - Calgary
Strategies for Success IV — Taking control of the
Future (Beef Information Centre symposium)
Harbour Castle Westin
Toronto. Ontario October 18-19
BIC - (416)766-6146 -Toronto. Ontario
Canadian Bankers' Association agricultural
finance conference
Auberge de Seigneurs
St. Hyacinthe. Quebec October 28 - 31
Cathy Frederickson - (416)362-6092 - Toronto.
Ontario
Annual meeting Prairie Chapter International
Society of Arboriculture
Mayfair Hotel
Edmonton November 1 - 3
Brendan Casement - 422-1 789 - Edmonton
Alberta Horticultural Congress and trade show
Calgary Convention Centre
Calgary November 1 - 4
Simone Demers Collins - 427-7366 - Edmonton
1990 Alberta Women in Support of Agriculture
conference
Capri Centre
Red Deer November 15 -16
AWSA office - 646-2059 - Nanton
Alberta Potato Marketing Board annual conference
Lethbridge November 15-17
Jan Brown - 291 -2430 - Calgary
Oat Producers Association of Alberta annual
meeting
Convention Inn
Edmonton November 21 and 22
Peter Kirylchuk - 623 5218 or Harvey Yoder
-623-7732 - Lac La Biche
Marketing to the Environment (a seminar)
Delta Bow Valley Inn
Calgary November 23
Eileen Grant - 266-0995 - Calgary
National awards program Canadian
Agri-Marketing Association
Calgary Convention Centre
Calgary November 23
Eileen Grant - 266-0995 - Calgary
AGRI
oo
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Landscape Alberta Nursery Trades Association
annual meeting, convention and trade show
Banff Springs Hotel
Banff November 28 - December 1
Judy Dreisig - 489-1991 - Edmonton
Canadian Forage Council conference and annual
meeting
Fantasyland Hotel, West Edmonton Mall
Edmonton November 29 - December 1
Jerry Sykes - 623-5218 - Lac la Biche
Alberta provincial poultry and rabbit show
Stampede Park
Calgary December 1 - 2
Don Stewart - 261 -01 62 - Calgary
Discover the Opportunities '90
Exhibition Centre
Prince Albert, Saskatchewan December 6
Barry Swanson - (306)953-2770 - Prince Albert.
Saskatchewan
Alberta Canada All Breeds Association livestock
genetics marketing Conference
Capri Centre
Red Deer December 12-13
Norma Dunn - 228-3467 - Calgary
1991
Unifarm annual convention
Mayfield Inn
Edmonton January 7-10
Willow Webb - 451 -591 2 - Edmonton
Western Canadian Wheat Growers annual
meeting and convention
Victoria Inn
Brandon, Manitoba January 9-11
Regina office - (306)586-5866 - Regina,
Saskatchewan
1991 Soil Conservation Workshop
Edmonton Inn
Edmonton January 15-17
Peter Gamache - 422-4385 - Edmonton
Russ Evans - 936-5306 - Langdon
Alberta Farm Women's Network Conference
Camrose January 30 - 31
Donna Graham - 485-6384 - Vulcan
Western Barley Growers 14th annual convention
and trade fair
Kananaskis Lodge
Kananaskis Village February 20 - 22
Anne Schneider - 291 -3620 - Calgary
Women of Unifarm annual convention
Camrose June 18-20
Willow Webb - 451 -591 2 - Edmonton
30
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Coming agricultural events
• Do you know of any provincial (Alberta), national or international agricultural meetings, conferences or
conventions coming in December, 1990 or January, February or later in 1991 9Are there any events
ommitted in the attached list?
• Please state the name of the event.
• What are the dates7
• Where is the event being held? Include city or town; hotel or convention centre, if known.
• Please give the name city or town, and phone number of a contact person for each event listed.
• This form has been completed by (organization):
Please return this form by November 23, 1990 to:
Agri-News Editor
Information Service Division
J.G. O'Donoghue Building
7000-1 13 Street, Edmonton. Alberta
T6H 5T6
(Coming Agriculture Events is published four times a year in Agri-News.
The next listing will be printed December 3, 1990)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
GO GO GO GO GO GO GO GO CO CO
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
This Week
Ergot infestations linked to soil copper deficiency 1
Plan accessible farm office 3
Workshops help farm home planning 5
Conservation project direct seeds winter wheat 6
Try fall seeding for earlier veggie crop 7
Disaster assistance available for flooded farmers 8
Federal -provincial agriculture ministers talk trade, policy review 10
Briefs 12
/dlberra
AGRICULTURE
Information Services Division
September 10, 1990
For immediate release
1
Ergot infestations linked to soil copper deficiency
Recent research by a team of scientists from Alberta Agriculture's
crop protection and soils branches has shown ergot infection in wheat
and barley can be associated with copper deficient soils.
Ergot, a fungal disease that infects many grasses including
cereals, is easily recognized by the hard black kernel -like structures
that replace the seed in the plant head. These ergot structures are
extremely toxic to humans and livestock and result in lower grain
grades. Copper is one of the 13 essential nutrients for plant growth.
"Wheat and barley growing normally with adequate soil copper levels
shouldn't become ergot infested." says team member Ieuan Evans, plant
pathology supervisor with the crop protection branch. "So, if either of
these cereals show ergot infection, producers should suspect a copper
deficiency in their soils." Evans says sandy and light loam soils are
most likely to be copper deficient and cause susceptibility to ergot.
Susceptibility to ergot infection occurs during pollination.
Copper deficiency can result in some degree of pollen sterility in wheat
and barley. "This causes the grain flowers to open so the stigmas
(female parts) can receive fertile pollen. The open flowers expose the
stigmas to infection by ergot spores," says Evans. "The infected
flowers then develop into ergots rather than normal grain."
Rye. on the other hand, is a cross pollinated grain and its flowers
normally open. Consequently, it's always susceptible to ergot
infection, he says.
Ergot on copper deficient soils will generally show up along the
headlands since wild grasses are usually the source of the poisonous
fungus. "Growers should check standing crop and harvested grain for the
hard black grain-sized structures," says Evans.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Ergot infestations linked to soil copper deficiency (cont'd)
"If you have ergot, it may be a good idea to harvest the outside of
the field separate from the rest, as this area most likely will have the
highest ergot contamination. Be aware the cereal grading system
includes tolerances for ergot."
Preventative measures against ergot include: seeding the field to
a non-host crop the next year as ergot rarely survives more than a year
in the soil; using ergot free seed or a resistant variety; and. mowing
headland grasses on a regular basis to prevent ergot production. If the
soil is deficient in copper, application of a copper fertilizer will
increase yield and reduce ergot levels, he says.
Evans, on behalf of the four-member research team of Doug Penney.
Rick Sherstabetof f and Elston Solberg. presented their research findings
to the 1990 Joint Annual Meeting of the Canadian and American
Phyopathological Societies in August.
Contact: Ieuan Evans
427-7098
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
5
Plan accessible farm office
A young Alberta farm family in the Veteran area had a common farm
office problem: their laundry, sewing and office space were all in the
same room.
Cramped and inconvenient, their farm office wasn't working for
them. So. they approached their local Alberta Agriculture district home
economist for help. Working with her and department housing
specialists, a solution was suggested and the couple built an office
space off their kitchen.
"They've had their office addition for a year." says Kerry Schwing.
Coronation district home economist. "They've found their office
location is handy for communication between spouses and a great place to
do books while dovetailing kitchen duties. The addition has met all of
their needs and more --they don't know why they didn't do it sooner."
A central main floor farm office is something more farm families
are planning to meet farm business and other family needs says Donna
Bagdan. Alberta Agriculture housing specialist in Edmonton. "A well
designed office helps you manage better, whether your farm office is
just for your farm's record keeping or it does additional duty for a
secondary home based business and or as a place for children to do their
homework . "
So. office planning starts with who will use the office and what
they'll use it for. she says. Additional users, space for meetings, and
room for a computer, filing cabinets and shelving are among
considerations when planning the size and physical layout of the room.
"If there is a second business, maybe you'll need a second desk.
If your children will do homework there, think about other surface work
area. What about wall shelving and a storage area for your reference
material? Do you want an armchair for visiting salesmen or clients?
You really need to think out your use." she says.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Plan accesible farm office (cont'd)
4
Location is the next consideration. "Accessibility has become a
main concern and people have moved their offices into the core of the
house, not hidden them in their basements," says Bagdan. Being close to
an outside entrance is important. So may be having a view of the farm
yard from the office window. Proximity to the kitchen can add to
communication ease and family togetherness.
Lighting, furnishing and arranging a farm office also require
special attention to keep it both comfortable and functional, she says.
"This includes getting good natural light from a window, remembering to
put a telephone in the office and buying a good chair for your desk."
Alberta Agriculture will soon have a new factsheet available to
help people with remodeling or building their farm office. As well,
farm families with questions and concerns about their farm office
design, can contact their local district office or housing specialist in
Edmonton for assistance.
30
Contact: Donna Bagdan
427-2181
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
5
Workshops help farm home planning
A series of nine two-day workshops across the province can help
farm families building a new home or remodeling their current house.
"Whether you're planning a new home, an addition or a small home
improvement, this workshop could be a big help." says Donna Bagdan.
Alberta Agriculture housing specialist with the engineering services
branch.
Bagdan. along with engineering branch colleague George Cassady and
Jeff Bradshaw of Alberta Energy, present the two-day program. Their
easy to understand, practical and useful information includes: farm home
design trends: selection of exterior finishing materials; windows and
doors; heating and ventilating systems: insulation and airtightness :
and, foundations.
Kitchens, lighting, working drawings, contracts and costs are also
on each workshop's agenda.
The specialists will also review participants' housing projects.
Consultation time will be available both days of the two-part workshop,
says Bagdan.
"By preregistering , participants receive a valuable preplanning kit
that helps them get their project down on paper. They'll also be better
prepared for the workshop," she says.
Housing publications on a variety of subjects will also be
available at the workshop.
Workshops have been scheduled for: Wrenthara, October 30 and
November 13; Brooks, October 31 and November 14; Fort Macleod. November
1 and 15; Wainwright, November 6 and 27; Grande Prairie. November 20 and
December 4; Genesse Hall, January 17 and 31; Lacombe , November 22 and
December 6; Torrington, January 22 and February 5; and. Daysland.
January 23 and February 6. For more information on the workshops,
contact local Alberta Agriculture district offices.
30
Contact: Donna Bagdan George Cassady
427-2181 427-2181
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
Conservation project direct seeds winter wheat
A soil conservation project in the Municipal District of Pincher
Creek will demonstrate soil and moisture conservation through a minimum
till winter wheat project.
With assistance from the Canada\Alberta agreement on Soil. Water
and Cropping Research and Technology Transfer (CARTT) program, the
municipality's agricultural service board (ASB) project compares two
different seeding dates in early and late September and zero-till versus
conventional till seeding of Norstar winter wheat.
"The most important thing in the demonstration is the difference
between winter wheat seeded directly into standing stubble compared to
stubble worked prior to seeding," says Rob Dunn, regional soil
conservation co-ordinator in Lethbridge.
Direct seeding accomplishes two things, he says. The soil surface
is protected from the erosive southern Alberta winds and the improved
snow catch reduces the risk of crop winter kill by creating a thermal
blanket of snow during the extreme cold.
"Improved snow catch can also increase soil moisture reserves which
increases potential crop yield." he adds.
In the zero till plot, winter wheat will be seeded directly into
standing stubble that has been sprayed with Roundup for weed control .
Tillage will be used for weed control and seedbed preparation on the
conventional tillage plot. Plots will be monitored for winter wheat
stand establishment, wind erosion, yields and soil moisture.
The project is located on the ASB's conservation demonstration
farm north of Cowley. The farm is used to demonstrate farming practices
that will help conserve soil and moisture in the municipality.
CARTT 's objective is to develop and transfer appropriate
conservation tillage and cropping technology which will minimize soil
degradation and sustain economic crop production.
30
Contact : Rob Dunn
381-5130
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
/
Try fall seeding for earlier veggie crop
Vegetable gardeners who want an earlier crop can try fall seeding
says an Alberta Agriculture specialist.
"Fall seeding is a way to get a head start on the growing season,"
says Pam North, information officer at the Alberta Tree Nursery and
Horticultural Centre in Edmonton. "For example, lettuce can be ready by
late June, carrots in early July and onions and garlic mature three
weeks earlier than if seeded in the spring."
Not all vegetables are suitable for fall seeding she cautions.
Cool season crops are the best. They include onions, carrots, parsnips,
spinach, lettuce and garlic.
Timing is also critical to fall seeding. "If the seed is planted
too early, it will take up water and be killed when the water freezes,
so you want to seed just before the ground freezes and into dry soil.
That's usually in late October or early November." North says.
North says a light soil with lots of organic matter works best when
fall seeding. "A heavy clay soil will form a crust which may prevent
seedlings from germinating in the spring."
She also advises choosing a spot in the garden that won't be in the
way of spring activity. The area should be sheltered to avoid wind blowing
seeds and soil away.
The same kind of soil preparation goes on when fall seeding as when
planting a garden in the spring. Soil must be worked and large lumps
broken up to make a fine seedbed, then levelled.
Finally, seeding is the same as in the spring. "Sow the seed at
the same depth as you normally would in the spring, only sow more
thickly because often about 10 per cent of the seeds don't germinate."
For more information on fall seeding, contact North at 422-1789.
30
Contact: Para North
422-1789
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
8
Disaster assistance available for flooded farmers
Farmers in western areas of the province who suffered flood damage
between the end of May and beginning of July are eligible for disaster
assistance .
Ken Kowalski. minister responsible for Alberta Public Safety
Services, announced an agricultural component of assistance for farmers
in designated areas. In addition to assistance for eligible residential
damage, farmers can also apply for assistance where flooding caused:
property damage to farm buildings and fences: loss or damage of farm
supplies including stored grain: and. repair of essential farm
driveways, roadways, bridges and culverts. Payments for this damage are
subject to a $1,000 deductible and the balance is cost-shared with the
government paying 80 per cent.
Debris clean-up. repair of septic tanks, and repair of
extraordinary erosion damage to cultivated land, dugouts and dams aren't
subject to the deductible and will be paid at 100 per cent of the
appraised cost. Maximum total assistance will be $100,000 to any
individual .
The agricultural component of the disaster assistance program
doesn't include loss of livestock, loss or damage to farm machinery and
vehicles, loss of recreational items including boats, stored building
materials and all crop losses including hay.
Where crop loss has caused financial hardship, nine per cent loans
with the first two years interest free will be available through the
Alberta Agricultural Development Corporation. In cases where farmers
have suffered back- to-back losses in 1989 and 1990. interest payments
will be exempted for up to five years.
Designated areas of the program include: Improvement Districts 20.
19. 17 (Heart River Basin). 16 and 5; Municipal Districts of Spirit
River, Smoky River (west of Highway 2), Brazeau. Clearwater. Rocky View
(west of Highway 2). Bighorn, and Foothills (west of Highway 2): and,
the Counties of Grande Prairie. Red Deer (west of Highway 2). Mountain
View (west of Highway 2). Lacombe . Ponoka . Wetaskiwin. Leduc and
Parkland (south of Highway 627 and west of Highway 60).
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
9
Disaster assistance available for flooded farmers (cont'd)
Detailed announcements about the whole program will be made in
local newspapers in the areas designated for assistance. Locations for
registration will be announced as soon as final arrangements with the
municipalities have been completed.
Anyone who needs immediate information should contact Alberta
Public Safety Services at 422-9000.
Starting in late May and continuing for the next six weeks, large
areas of western Alberta had extraordinarily heavy rains. In some cases
there was as much as six to seven inches in a 24-hour period. A
disaster assistance program for residential and business losses was
announced on July 10.
30
Contact: Grahame Blundell
451-7111
EDITOR'S NOTE: BECAUSE OF AGRI -NEWS' EARLY PRESS TIME, REGISTRATION
LOCATIONS AND TIMES MAY HAVE BEEN SET. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL
MUNICIPAL OFFICE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
10
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
Federal -provincial agriculture ministers talk trade, policy review
International trade issues and the current review of national
agri-food policy dominated the recent meeting of federal and provincial
agriculture ministers in Moncton.
"We had a very busy and productive meeting, particularly from the
Alberta perspective." savs Shirley McClellan. Associate Agriculture
Minister, speaking on behalf of herself and Agriculture Minister Ernie
Isley who is currently on a Latin American trade mission. "Trade
discussions are important, especially as we head toward the final months
of the current GATT round of negotiations, scheduled for completion this
December . "
At the conference. Alberta tabled a report on provincial input in
trade negotiations. McClellan says the paper suggested additional ways
provincial perspectives and analyses could be included in Multilateral
Trade Negotiations (MTN) . "Our concern is full and effective
participation and the best way to achieve that goal." she says. "I'm
confident the federal government is clear about our resolve to be
included and will see our request is effectively accommodated."
The ministers also agreed in principle on a mechanism to speed up
removal of technical barriers to interprovincial trade. A memorandum of
understanding outlining the mechanism was signed by the Alberta
ministers .
Going into the conference, McClellan says Isley and she were
seeking progress in two key areas, transportation and farm income
stabilization. Action is being taken on both these issues, she says.
The ministers established a federal -provincial committee to examine
payment options for the Western Grain Transportation Act and Feed
Freight Assistance, recognizing regional and provincial needs as well as
grain handling and transportation efficiency. The committee will
prepare a framework paper for a November 1990 meeting of all agriculture
ministers .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Federal -provincial
(cont 'd)
agriculture ministers talk trade.
policy review
In November, the ministers will also look at safety nets more
closely. "There are number of issues for consideration. As a group, we
are very interested in the production neutrality of the suggested Gross
Revenue Insurance Plan (GRIP) and a Net Income Stabilization Account
(NISA) . Options, especially those related to government and farmer
financial obligations, will need to fleshed out before decisions are
made , " she says .
Reviews of the work by 11 task forces examining agri-food policy
were a major portion of the conference agenda. The ministers
acknowledged the substantial progress to date and expressed appreciation
for the work done by more than 200 people in private and public sectors
involved in the task forces.
Among the highlights of their review was an endorsement of a plan
for environmental sustainability and of recommendations to enhance
market responsiveness and competitiveness in the agri-food industry.
"I was also very pleased with a report tabled by a
federal -provincial committee on rural community development. I believe
it's complementary to a program already underway in our province, Local
Development Initiatives, introduced by Ray Speaker, Minister of
Municipal Affairs.
"We, in rural Alberta, know the impact of decisions made from the
provincial to international level on our communities. The committee's
report encouraged maintaining and enhancing the strength of rural
communities, a strength which I believe is important to our nation as a
whole," says McClellan.
30
Contact: Louise Riopel
422-9156
Barry Mehr
427-2442
September 10. 1990
For immediate release
1?
Agri-News briefs
ALBERTA FARM WOMAN OF THE YEAR
The Alberta Farm Women's Network is looking for nominations for
their annual woman of the year award. Award considerations are
contributions to community though leadership in organizations and
dedication to the farming community. The award will also recognize
contributions and dedication to familv and farm. Nomination forms are
available from Alberta Agriculture district home economists. The
deadline is November 30. The award will be presented at the third
provincial Alberta Farm Women's conference in Calgary January 30 to 31.
For more information, contact Donna Graham in Vulcan at 485-6384.
STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESS BEEF SYMPOSIUM
The fourth "Strategies for Success" symposium organized by the Beef
Information Centre will be in Toronto October 18 and 19. Topics on the
agenda are: past, present and future beef demand; consumer needs in the
'90s; meeting the demand for convenience: foodservice needs in the '90s;
meeting demand for quality; and. eating greener. For more information,
contact the Beef Information Centre in Toronto at (416)766-6146.
NOMINATION CALL FOR 1991 SOIL CONSERVATION AWARDS
The Alberta Conservation Tillage Society and the Western Producer
are calling for nominations for the 1991 Soil Conservation Awards. Some
changes have been made to the awards program. The individual award name
has been changed to the Conservation Farm Family Award to better reflect
conservation farming as a familv affair. The award recognizes
outstanding achievement in soil conservation by an Alberta family.
Nominations for the award can now be made through local municipalities.
Nominations will be forwarded by the municipality to one of six soil
conservation advisory committees to choose six regional winners as award
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
13
Agri-New briefs (cont'd)
NOMINATION CALL FOR 1991 SOIL CONSERVATION AWARDS (cont'd)
finalists. Judging criteria include: evidence of a long terra plan;
scope of the plan; appropriateness of conservation methods; economic and
practical benefits; innovation; leadership; community involvement; and,
participation in conservation organizations. Nominations for the Group
Conservation Award are made directly to ACTS. The purpose of the award
is to recognize outstanding support for soil conservation by an Alberta
group. These groups may include community, agricultural society and
local organizations. Province -wide groups are not eligible. Judging
criteria include long term planning and activity success through impact
on the community and adoption of conservation methods. The nomination
deadline is October 1, 1990. Nomination forms are available from
municipal fieldmen and Alberta Agriculture district offices. Both
awards will be presented at the ACTS annual meeting in January 1991.
Winners are expected to make a brief presentation explaining their
conservation program to the soil conservation workshop at the ACTS
annual meeting. For more information, contact Russ Evans, ACTS. Box 1,
Site 9, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 2G6 or call 936-5306.
HUNTER JUMPING RIDING SCHOOL AT OLDS COLLEGE
National equestrian team member Gail Ross will instruct a hunter
jumper riding school at Olds College September 21 through 23. The
clinic is open to all interested persons with their own horses. The
school will cover basic problems in riding and training at beginner and
advanced levels. Students will be divided into small working groups
with similar interests and abilities. For more information, contact
Olds College extension services at 556-8344.
30
GO GO CO GO GO GO CO GO GO GO
September 17. 1990
For immediate release
OCT -5 ton
This Week
Shoemaker promoting Alberta oats 1
Management now to prevent spring scours 3
Asia Pacific buyers at special Alberta food display 5
Early harvest weather good 7
Alberta Agriculture appointments 9
Briefs 11
/dlberra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-2121
September 17. 1990
For immediate release
Shoemaker promoting Alberta oats
One of the world's greatest all time jockeys has been enlisted to
promote Alberta oats.
Bill Shoemaker signed a contract this summer with the Oat Producers
Association of Alberta. In return for endorsing and promoting Alberta
oats wherever he races. Shoemaker will be supplied with Alberta oats
for a year.
Association secretary- treasurer Shirley Cripps says having the high
profile and highly respected Shoemaker promote the Alberta product is a
tremendous marketing opportunity, especially in California where
Shoemaker is based. California is second only to Texas in its total
horse population. It's also a tough and competitive market to break
into .
"Any opportunity we can give to
Alberta oat producers by exposing
their product, is important in
expanding our oat market." she says.
And it doesn't hurt, she adds, that
Shoemaker says "Alberta oats are the
finest oats he's ever used".
Shoemaker was a jockey for 40
years winning more money than any
other rider in racing history.
Based in the Los Angeles area, he
currently trains and runs a string
of 30 horses and says Alberta oats
are a good product. "They're
probably the best oats I've seen
from anywhere . " he said from Del Mar
racetrack near San Diego in southern
California .
Bill Shoemaker (left) and
Shirley Cripps (right) at his
California stables.
(Cont'd)
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Shoemaker promoting Alberta oats (cont'd)
Shoemaker says he's talked with many of his racing fraternity about
Alberta oats since signing the promotion contract in June. All of them
have been impressed, he adds.
Sales are the ultimate goal of the promotion. The generic
promotion of the Alberta oat product is a building block in establishing
markets and assuring potential customers of both high quality and
reliable supply, says Alberta Agriculture trade director Elton Dunk.
"The original idea for getting Willie Shoemaker involved in a
promotion came from a private company. It was instrumental in the
initial contact and getting the program on the road. The association's
promotion will help not onlv this company but all companies who market
Alberta oats," says Dunk.
Dunk says the racehorse community is already aware of Alberta oats.
Consecutive Kentucky Derby winners Sunday Silence, Winning Colors and
Alysheba were all fueled by Alberta oats. "This particular promotion
reinforces that awareness within the California target market, and will
lead to additional exposure at major tracks in other regions."
Marketing and market development of Alberta oats are two of the
four main objectives of the provincial oat association formed in June
1989. It's also concerned with production and research.
High and consistent quality are the primary attraction of Alberta
oats. Alberta oats tend to have higher bushel weights than those from
northern American states. This makes them a higher energy feed which is
particularly attractive to the performance horse industry.
Alberta is one of the premier oat growing regions in the world.
The province's farmers account for just over half of Canadian
production .
30
Contact: Shirley Cripps
682-3758
Elton Dunk
427-4241
September 17. 1990
For immediate release
Management now to prevent spring scours
Calf scours is a disease of management, so now is the time for
preventative action before calves are born in the spring says the head
of Alberta Agriculture's health management branch.
"Scours can't be successfully controlled by only using vaccines and
drugs. Proper facilities are needed in order to apply management
techniques that prevent a scours outbreak. So, if you have to change
your approach, you'll need time to plan and then construct. Remember
posts and water lines may only be put into the ground before freeze up."
says Ralph Shute .
Anything that causes a weak calf automatically predisposes the calf
to scours. Filth in the calving area adds to the chance calves will
contract the disease. So. management starts with cleanliness and well
fed cows, he says. "Healthy, well fed. clean cows usually produce
calves which will be the same."
Feeding cows an adequate and balanced ration is the most important
element in producing a lively, healthy calf. "Inadequate cow nutrition
can be compared to making a brick building using mud instead of mortar
to hold the bricks together. You get a building that looks okay, but
the first rain or stress causes the walls to crumble.
"It's the same for a cow and calf. A poorly nourished cow will
produce a normal looking calf, but it will likely succumb to disease
from the normal stress of life." says Shute. Consult an Alberta
Agriculture regional livestock or local veterinarian for more
information on nutrition requirements, he adds.
He advises producers to consider feeding cows and heifers
separately to make sure heifers obtain maximum growth and can provide
optimal nutrition for their calves. "This may require construction or
modification of feeders, fences, water lines and shelters," Shute says.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
4
Management now to prevent spring scours (cont'd)
Winter feeding areas should be well separated from the calving
area. This allows a clean calving area, free of manure accumulation.
As well, the cows' living area should be in a high, well drained
location. "If you don't have those kinds of areas, it's wise to
construct drainage ditches or plateaus to assure a muck-free
environment," says Shute .
Clean cows are of equal importance, he says. "A new born calf
searching for a teat and finding nothing but balls of manure clinging to
the cow's flank is an immediate candidate for scours."
Last year's feeding and calving areas should be cleaned out and
left to dry in "good old Alberta sunshine", he adds. "Nothing goes
further in sanitizing a barnyard or shelter than a thorough drying."
As well, portable feeders should be continually moved to new, dry
locations. Also plan to put up and use lots of bedding. "It's a really
cheap 'medicine' in preventing scours," Shute says.
He also advises enough shelters to allow cows and calves to cope
with the rigors of Alberta's winter and spring months. A dry shelter,
out of the wind, with lots of bedding saves many calves from an untimely
death .
A clean convenient water source for calves is also important.
"Water, low to the ground and free of ice, keeps calves from drinking
barnyard puddles. A creep watering area prevents cows from soiling the
water source , 11 he says .
Another plan-ahead strategy to help calves is a colostrum bank.
"Collect some from a neighbouring dairy and keep it in the freezer.
It's a life saver when some late night a heifer won't accept her new
calf and it's weak.
"Thaw and feed with a tube or bottle within the first hour after
birth. Then, the calf is well set to resist disease and will have
enough energy to persist in keeping after the heifer," Shute says.
30
Contact: Ralph Shute
436-9343
September 17, 1990
For immediate release
5
Asia Pacific buyers at special Alberta food display
A table top display of Alberta processed food products gave buyers
from Japan. Hong Kong and New Zealand an opportunity to see and taste
Alberta made products.
The buyers, in transit from an international food trade show in
Vancouver, stopped in Edmonton to see a special one-day display of a
wide range of Alberta food products, says David Wong. Alberta
Agriculture senior trade director for the Asia Pacific market.
"We invited a number of Alberta companies to take part in a
co-operative effort with the department's marketing services division
and market development division." he says. Marketing services works
with the provincial industry, while market development seeks out
opportunites both within and beyond Alberta's borders.
Wong says the Asia Pacific market is of growing importance to
Alberta food exporters. While the United States is still the leading
destination of Alberta agriculture and food products, second place
Japan's export total isn't far behind. In 1989. U.S. exports were $609
million, and Japan's $528 million out of Alberta's total $2.08 billion
agricultural and food trade.
"As Japan's food import regulations become more liberalized,
there are even greater opportunities for Alberta processors. Niche
markets for western-style foods are also opening up. Events like the
table top display, help promote our products," he says.
But more important than promotion, face-to-face meetings between
buyers and processors bridge information gaps about packaging and
quality. "Each side learns," says Ron Petti tt, manager of the processed
food development sector in the marketing services divison. "The foreign
buyers get a better grasp of Alberta quality, while our processors get a
better understanding of packaging and quality needs. They also acquire
a better insight into how business is done in foreign countries."
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
6
Asia Pacific buyers at special Alberta food display (cont'd)
Packaging is a particular concern. Quantities, size differences
and preferences are important considerations in new markets. But. a
recent problem with a product also showed differences in climate have to
be considered.
"The Japanese are big on Alberta beef jerky. Buyers were
enthusiastic about our product, and bought and shipped it. But high
humidity caused some mold problems. However, with assistance from the
Food Processing and Development Test Centre in Leduc . the packaging
problem was solved," says Wong. The example not only illustrates a
potential problem, but also the tools available from Alberta Agriculture
to help food processors' efforts in new markets, he adds.
Other buyers in attendance at the table top display were from Hong
Kong and New Zealand. Neither are major markets, both with relatively
small populations. But their interest is solid, Wong says.
"Hong Kong imports over 90 per cent of its food. There's a lot of
adoption of western foods and the need to feed its hordes of western
tourists. The retail buyers we had here wanted to find reliable
sources for their food service industry.
"The New Zealand group is particularly interested in bacon and
canola oil, and we'll be continuing trade development work through the
Canadian High Commission there."
30
Contact: David Wong
427-4241
Ron
427-
Pettitt
7325
/
September 17. 1990
For immediate release
Early harvest weather good
A warm dry August provided good harvest conditions for most parts
of Alberta says Alberta Agriculture's weather resource specialist.
"Unfortunately, hot dry weather was the last thing farmers in east
central Alberta wanted. Dry conditions there during August diminished
crop prospects and reduced range and pasture productivity." says Peter
Dzikowski . of the conservation and development branch in Edmonton.
Temperatures were one to two degrees Celsius above normal during
August. The first half of the month was really warm, the last half was
generally cool with frost in many parts of central Alberta.
Fortunately, temperatures dipped just to freezing or slightly below
causing only isolated minor damage, he says.
August rainfall was generally below normal in most of southern
Alberta with typical values of 15 to 30 mm of precipitation, about 30 to
60 per cent of normal. Central areas reported 40 to 70 mm of rain.
Rain fall was highly variable in the Peace region with amounts between
12 to 64 mm reported.
The lowest rainfall total for the month was 12.2 ram at the Peace
River Airport. 24 per cent of the normal monthly total. The highest
total reported was 80.2 ram at Vegreville, 108 per cent of normal.
Also of note, Elnora reported 80 mm of rain during August. 140 per cent
of the August normal for the community south east of Red Deer.
Dzikowski says the 1990 growing season has on average been close to
normal. Overall May 1 to August 31 precipitation was 248 ram. a single
percentage point above the normal average of 244.5 mm. The total is an
average for 49 Alberta weather stations.
The average temperature for the same four month period was 14.5
degrees Celsius which is 0.4 degrees warmer than the normal.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Early harvest weather good (cont'd)
"These overall averages are interesting, but they hide the facts of
July flooding from heavy rainfall in west central Alberta and quite dry
conditions through the end of the summer in eastern Alberta," he says.
Seasonal precipitation totals varied from a low of 139.7 mm at Bow
Island- -83 per cent of its normal --to a high of 417.2 mm at Red Deer,
151 per cent of its long term normal. Peace River's 147.8 mm total was
second driest in the province and was 71 per cent of its long term
average .
"When you consider overall averages, it was a near 'normal' season
this year. But, not many places had normal weather over the crop year,"
says Dzikowski .
30
Contact: Peter Dzikowski
422-4385
September 17. 1990
For immediate release
Alberta Agriculture Appointments
NEW BRANCH HEAD AT LEDUC FOOD PROCESSING DEVELOPMENT CENTRE
Robert Myhara is the new branch head of Alberta Agriculture's Food
Processing Development Centre in Leduc . Myhara has 15 years experience
in the food industry. He has worked for Canada Packers, the Marine
Institute of Newfoundland and Labrador and most recently as a food
industry consultant in Toronto. "While a consultant, ray work involved
process and product development, food safety and quality, food
microbiology, packaging materials evaluation, quality control program
development and guidance on regulatory affairs," he says. Myhara holds
MSc (University of Manitoba) and PhD (University of British Columbia)
degrees in food science. His appointment was announced by Dennis
Glover, director of the marketing services division. "Dr. Myhara 's
background and experience will be a major benefit to Alberta's food
processing industry as we tackle the concerns of food safety,
environmental impact, new product development and the challenges of
marketing our products in an increasingly competitive world marketplace.
Myhara can be reached in Leduc at 986-4793.
NEW DISTRICT AGRICULTURIST IN HANNA
Hanna's new district agriculturist is John Erdman. Erdman joins
Alberta Agriculture from a family farming operation at Barons. He had
been involved in the farm since 1984. Before that time, he completed
Alberta Green Certificate programs in dryland crops (level three), beef
(level two) and sheep (level one). He was also involved with the
Dryland Salinity Association, serving on its technical committee. He is
a 1977 BSc in animal science graduate of the University of Guelph. As
district agriculturist, he will provide information and educational
programs to producers, farm organizations and agribusiness. "I'm
looking forward to getting to know and working with the farm community
in the Hanna area." he says. He can be contacted in Hanna at 854-5500.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Alberta Agriculture Appointments (cont'd)
NEW DISTRICT AGRICULTURIST IN SPIRIT RIVER
Cathie Erichsen has joined Alberta Agriculture as the Spirit River
district agriculturist. She already had
experience working with Peace River region
farmers after spending the summer of 1989 as
an assistant district agriculturist in
Valleyview. A 1989 graduate of the
University of Alberta with a BSc in
agriculture, Erichsen spent last winter as
the regional 4-H assistant in Stettler. As
district agriculturist, she will assist
farmers with production and management
information and educational programs. "I'm
enjoying working with farmers, their CATHIE ERICHSEN
organizations and agribusiness in the Spirit River area." she says.
Erichsen can be reached in Spirit River at 864-3597.
30
September 1/. 1990
For immediate release
11
Agri-News briefs
ALBERTA 4-H ALUMNUS ON SOVIET TRIP
Greg Deitz. of Vulcan, was the Canadian 4-H Council representative
in a seven-member Canadian delegation visit to the Soviet Union. The
Canadians were invited by CYO-Komsomol . a committee of youth
organizations in the USSR, on an exposure tour and planning mission for
a Canada-USSR conference on vouth. familv and society. The delegation
arrived in Moscow on September 1 and returned to Canada September 10.
They also spent three days in Ashkhabad at a conference with the theme:
"mankind, the family, society: problems and solutions". Tours of the
cities, historic sites, schools and youth groups were on the agenda, as
well as round table discussions and working group meetings. Deitz has
been a 4-H club member, worked as staff and sponsored 4-H activities as
well as working with other youth programs in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
In addition to his extensive 4-H involvement, he has participated in the
Manitoba Rural Youth Forum, the Ontario Junior Farmers annual meeting
and the World Congress of Rural Youth in New Zealand. He is currently
the owner/operator of his own small business enterprise in Vulcan. The
United Farmers of Alberta and the Alberta Wheat Pool were corporate
sponsors of Deitz's trip. For more information, contact Malhon Weir at
the 4-H branch in Edmonton at 427-2541 or Deitz in Vulcan at 485-6393.
IMPROVE SWINE EFFICIENCY BY VIDEO
If you're interested in improving the efficiency of your swine
operation. Alberta Agriculture's Film Library now has a number of
excerpts from a telecourse available on video. The telecourse was
produced by Purdue University in conjunction with Kansas State
University. The segement topics are: pre-weaning mortality (440-2-1):
feed efficieny (440-2-2); three-phase feeding programs (440-2-3):
alternative feed stuffs (440-2-4): feed grinding (440-2-5): managing
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
12
IMPROVE SWINE EFFICIENCY BY VIDEO (cont'd)
swine environment (440-2-6); space allowances (440-2-7); and, Henry Ltd,
a farrow-to-finish operation (440-2-8). Each excerpt is available on
its own cassette. They may be borrowed by writing the Alberta
Agriculture Film Library, 7000-113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6 .
There is no cost for borrowing, but out -of -province borrowers must pay
courier charges .
AUTUMN PINE NEEDLE SHED NORMAL
Yellow and brown needles in the late summer and fall aren't
necessarily a sign of a diseased pine tree. Most often this is the
natural shedding of needles, says Pam North, information officer at the
Alberta Tree Nursery and Horticultural Centre in Edmonton. Most pines
keep their needles for three to four years. Eventually they turn color,
yellow or brown, and fall off the tree. Those needles aren't replaced,
but trees get new growth on branch ends in the spring. If trees are
under stress from drought, poor soil fertility, transplant shock or
pesticide damage, they will shed more needles. Consult a horticulturist
or district agriculturist, if you're not sure what is causing the needle
shed. Pines aren't the only evergreens that shed their needles. Spruce
trees shed six to seven-year-old needles. Because spruce are more dense
than pines, the browning isn't as noticeable. Needle shed is also very
noticeable in cedars. For more information, contact the Alberta Tree
Nursery and Horticulture Centre in Edmonton at 422-1789.
30
This Week
Isley's trade mission to Latin America successful 1
Calf hide market has diversification potential 3
Preg checking improves herd efficiency 6
1990 4-H scholarships awarded 8
Old and new ways to battle frost 12
Water part of fall lawn care 14
Briefs lb
/dlbcrra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-2121
1
September 24. 1990
For immediate release
Isley' s trade mission to Latin America successful
Agriculture Minister Ernie Isley has returned from a two-week trade
mission to Latin America. The mission. August 25 to September 11.
involved meetings in Brazil. Uruguay. Argentina and Mexico.
"Our goals on this trade mission were to further open the lines of
communication between Alberta and key trading partners in Latin America,
to discuss issues of great importance to our agriculture industry, such
as the progress of the ongoing Multilateral Trade Negotiations, and to
pursue increased sales of our province's livestock genetics and
technology, which are among the very best in the world. I'm pleased to
report that we made important advances in each of these areas on this
mission." says the minister.
During the mission. Islev met with the Ministers of Agriculture of
all four countries he visited. "In discussions with my counterparts in
Brazil. Uruguay. Argentina and Mexico, we worked toward a consensus on
the need to eliminate agricultural export subsidies during the current
round of GATT talks. We also discussed a number of joint projects to
promote trade in agricultural products." he says.
In both Brazil and Mexico, special promotions were conducted to
showcase Alberta livestock and livestock genetics. "I was very pleased
with the turn out we had at these promotional events." says Isley. "and
was left with no doubt whatsoever that we'll see increased sales of
Alberta breeding stock and genetics as a result of our activities."
The minister noted that, following his return from Latin America,
he asked the Alberta Agricultural Development Corporation (ADC) to look
into the possibilities for development of export financing initiatives.
"I'd like to find an effective way to encourage Alberta's agricultural
export companies to open up new markets, not just in Latin America, but
around the world." he says. "I am confident that ADC's expertise in
agri-business development can be put to very profitable use in this
area . "
(Cont 'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Isley's trade mission to Latin America successful (cont'd)
2
"Alberta's agriculture and food industry has earned an excellent
name in the countries of Latin America." the minister says. "Through
ministerial trade missions such as this one. and through the ongoing
market development efforts of Alberta Agriculture staff, we can build on
our reputation to generate sales and trade dollars for Alberta
agri -businesses . "
30
Contact :
Arnold de Leeuw
427-4241
427-4241
Doug Bienert
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 24. 1990
For immediate release
Calf hide market has diversification potential
Demand for high quality leather has sparked a potential line of
diversification for Alberta cattlemen.
Last year, Hermes, an international Paris fashion house
specializing in leather merchandise, purchased 225 calf hides from
Alberta as a pilot project. Another 500 calves are expected to be sold
this year with a potential for market expansion into the tens of
thousands .
"Hermes is enthusiastic about the quality of our Alberta product,
as it's superior to hides procured from their traditional sources.
Based on what they've experienced so far. they intend to expand their
buying in our province." says Shirley McClellan. Alberta's Associate
Agriculture Minister. While on a recent trade mission, she met with
company representatives in Paris.
Throughout the past year. Hermes buyer Valentin Bercovici-Plopul
has made presentations to Alberta cattlemen and met with individual
producers detailing company requirements. Once Montreal -based .
Bercovici-Plopul and the Canadian research division have recently moved
to Edmonton.
Hermes is looking for hides from healthy Simmental or
S immental -Hereford cross calves only, he says. Hides must be blemish
free with no marking from brands, injections or other external cuts or
scratches. Castration and dehorning aren't required.
Calves, born in late February to March, are marketed in mid May to
late July at 300 to 330 pounds. Autumn-born calves sold at the same
weight are also part of the buying program, says Bercovici-Plopul.
Rob Hand and Bob Winchell , respectively Alberta Agriculture
regional livestock specialist and farm economist in Barrhead, did a
comparison of producer returns from traditional beef marketing to this
hide market. They found producers would get about $50 over the market
value of a 575 pound steer by selling a calf for its hide.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
4
Calf hide market has diversification potential (cont'd)
While that return for a younger calf looks promising, they caution
producers to consider all the factors involved in raising calves for
a hide market. "Selling your calves for this hide market is a real
opportunity, but we suggest before making a decision that producers
weigh all the advantages and disadvantages based on their own
operation." savs Winchell.
Herd size is a consideration. Bercovi ci - Plopul buys around 30 to
50 calves in a first time contract. Ultimately, he's looking for
producers who can market between 150 and 750 calves annually. Hermes
offers one year trial contracts with individual producers but has
indicated it would like to sign three to five year contracts to
guarantee long term supplies.
"I tell producers I won't make them millionaires, but they won't
have to worry about paving their bills." Bercovici - Plopul says of the
long term contracts. He adds Hermes has steady contracts with European
sources stretching back nearly a century.
Facilities might be the most limiting factor for producers, says
Hand. "Acceptable hides for this speciality market need to be free of
blemishes caused by external injury, so calves have to be enclosed where
there is no barb wire. All smooth wire, wood or electricif ied fencing
is okay.
"Sheltered areas have to be free of protruding nails and anything
else that could cause bruising and scratches, even brush and trees. As
well, calves have to be transported in a smooth walled truck or trailer.
Producers might have to make some investment on facilities and weigh
that cost against eventual returns."
Bercovici -Plopul says the initial contract with producers
recognizes the investment and any changes in management techniques
producers might have to make to create the best environment for flawless
hides, so producers are paid a premium for their first lot of hides.
(Cont 'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Calf hide market has diversification potential (cont'd)
Producers do have some risks as not all calves will meet hide
specifications, says Hand. There are three levels of hide quality,
judged once the hides have been totallv processed in Europe. At the top
is spotless for which the producer would receive full price. If the
hide is partly useable, they receive a price based on the percentage of
useable hide. If a hide is totally blemished, the producer gets the
meat value minus the cost of processing. Producers receive a partial
payment when an order is placed, another payment when calves are
delivered, and then the final payment once the hide is totally
processed .
Each hide is numbered with a producer code and identified from its
initial processing at the Innisfail Lambco plant until it becomes
leather .
30
Contact: Rob Hand
674-8248
Bob Winchell
674-8256
Valentin Bercovici -Plopul
429-1495
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 24. 1990
For immediate release
Preg checking improves herd efficiency
Early and reliable pregnancy checking is an important management
tool for any beef cow/calf operation says an Alberta Agriculture
special ist .
"It's a question of economics and efficiency." says Cornelia
Kreplin. a veterinarian with the animal health division. "When you
consider it costs about $200 to $250 to feed an open cow over the
winter, it makes good economic sense to spend the $1 to $3 per cow it
costs for your veterinarian to check your females."
Pregnancy checks allow producers to make herd management decisions
such as culling the open cow or moving it to a fall calving program.
Herd problems such as infertility, repeat breeding or infectious venerea
diseases can be recognized at an earlier stage with well-timed pregnancy
checks . she adds .
"These advantages make it surprising more producers don't take
advantage of this management tool," she says. A recent survey by the
department's animal industry division found less than 30 per cent of
Alberta cattle producers pregnancy check.
There are a number of ways to pregnancy check. These include
observing cows for return to heat, examining the reproductive tract
through the rectum, analysis of blood or milk for high levels of the
hormone progesterone, using probes to measure electrical resistance of
vaginal mucus and ultrasound examination of the uterus.
"Having the bull do the work, or watching for cows to return to
estrus, is probably the most common method used here. Unfortunately,
it's also the least accurate." she says. Between five and 10 per cent
of cows show behavioral signs of heat for up to 240 days of pregnancy.
As well . observing a cow herd is time consuming and is usually needed
when haying or harvesting are in progress.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
7
Preg checking improves herd efficiency (cont'd)
The fastest, most economical and reliable pregnancy check method
available is examination, or palpation, of the reproductive tract
through the rectum. Rectal palpation has been used by veterinarians for
over 90 years. A positive test is based on detection of several
characteristics of a pregnant uterus.
"This method has limitations, but its greatest cash cost is the
rectal sleeves needed for the examination. It's safe for the vet and
the cow. It can be done quickly and results are available immediately,"
Kreplin says. Accuracy is generally good, but depends on the operator
and his experience, she adds.
Most errors are made if the examination is too early in gestation.
Accuracy improves when the bull has been removed from the cows for at
least 30 to 35 days. Accuracy is also difficult after 120 days of
pregnancy as the uterus will have fallen into the abdominal cavity and
be out of reach for anyone making an examination.
One criticism of the practice is that cows sometimes abort following
manipulation. Kreplin says some of the spontaneous abortions may be
coincidental . They frequently occur before 45 days of gestation as
nature's way of eliminating genetic abnormalities. In order to minimize
potential abortions, she says, examinations shouldn't include direct
palpation of the fetus.
30
Contact: Cornelia Kreplin
436-8901
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 24. L990
For immediate release
1990 4-H scholarships awarded
Seventy-six past or present 4-H members have been awarded
post - secondary scholarships for the 1990-91 academic year.
Students from throughout Alberta benefited from over $51,000
offered in scholarships this year. Nearly 250 applications were
received by the 4-H branch. Each one was considered on 4-H and
community involvement, leadership skills, school activities and academic
standing .
In 1990 three new scholarships were added to the 4-H scholarship
program: seven $1000 awards from Alberta Ford & Mercury Dealers: the
Wetaskiwin District 4-H Scholarship, three scholarships worth
approximately $500 each: and. the Dixon Shield Memorial Scholarship,
valued this year at $450 and administered by the 4-H Foundation of
Alberta .
4-H scholarships are sponsored by individuals, corporations,
associations, the Alberta government and memorial funds.
For more information on the 4-H scholarship program in Alberta, or
for information on starting a 4-H scholarship, contact Alberta
Agriculture. 4-H Branch. Room 200. 7000 - 113 Street. Edmonton. Alberta
T6H 5T6 or call 422-4444.
30
Contact: Val Runyon
422-4444
(Editor's Note: Following is a complete list of 4-H scholarship winners
for 1990-91. News directors and editors please note a detailed package
on the winners and scholarships with pictures will be mailed to you by
the 4-H branch in the near future. Please contact Val Runyon at
422-4444 for more information.)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
SCHOLARSHIP
1990 4-H SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
RECIPIENT
Alberta Dairymen's Association $1000
& Alberta Agriculture
Alberta Ford & Mercury
Dealer Scholarship
Alberta Treasury Branches
(2nd Year)
Bale Bandits
Canadian National Exhibition
Central Alberta Dairy Pool
Ceres International Women's
Fraternity
Dixon Shield Memorial
Edith Taylor Memorial
Farm Credit Corporation
fi ] 000
'.111 ^ 1 11 1 1 1 1 I 1 1, 1 Id III
1/ o 1 o ci \r
I\ C ■ 1 .it V
d t 1 1
1 Id I 1 all >J \J 1 11 1 \J 1 1
xr a r\M i '"a
(li nppf I anpan
V ' 1 11 E_ V_ L Lj LA 1 1 r_ U L I
Beaverl odpp
U X- l_* V \_ i. X W \^ V-
$ 500
Itinrirl H i 1 1 p t~ t*
± UK. 1. X VI 11 I 1 I t I L
i> ci i i 1 1 v n v.i
each
Carla Brennan
Forestburg
SI 000
Pi n^V *s ITI 1 opl cl/ i
1111.' . ... : 1 1 OM
Nl fnn Innrt" i nn
li 1 L- VJ I 1 O VI 1 1 L i.\Jll
each
T p p q ^ O^jw
Chr i ^ f onhe r N i xon
G r i mshaw
KpI 1 v Ti c:ri^l p
IX C X X V 1. X O VXC1 X v3
Rpri [)ppr
I 1 C *3 f^CVI
Lil od Oat V 1
1 J 1 1 '.' 1 P V
1 1 1 j. .\. x t- y
^t'^ir'Pv Pa r cnnQ
J LaLc > i ■ 1 . . ■ - 1 1 1 . •
Yni ino c t nwTi
1 '■'.!>.> 1. WWII
Valerie Ewanc iw
Myrnam
$1000
T^ni f* p H nnl ^nn1
J uLULC V>vJL/J.ClllV.l
T ^ p nmhp
each
Ancpl a rjnt fpnhprtr
ill Iriv i. a V W L- L C 1 1 UC L rL
Vi il fpn
V IX X CX 1 1
T^tiv^ V^n Ti crhpm
lull Ya V all 1 1 ri I U 111
fa f q t o \ >- c
James Stannard
Sherwood Park
Stacy Livingstone
Vermilion
Barbara Gabert
Manning
Douglas Brown
Byemoor
$ 500
David Peltzer
Duchess
each
DoupI as Marksv
Waskatenau
Margo Lawrence
Pine Lake
Nancy Weiss
Vegreville
$1000
Monica Groom
Ponoka
$1000
Carla Anderson
Taber
$ 500
Ella Wright
Didsbury
each
Kevin Longeway
Carstairs
$ 100
$ 450
$ 400
Shelly-Ann Dodgson Sangudo
Valerie Differenz
Keith Gabert
$ 300 Mari -Colleen Yost
each Liza Reinhardt
Tammy Shopland
Kristy Smith
Susan Reinders
Patricia Mitchell
Annette Cannaday
(Cont 'd)
Bruderheira
Manning
Chipman
Rockyf ord
Athabasca
Endiang
Deadwood
Pincher Creek
Rocky Mtn. House
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
1990 4-H scholarship recipients (cont'd)
$ 100 Darin Not t
Farmhouse International
Fraternity
AH Foundation of Alberta
Hoechst Canada Bursary
Inga Marr Memorial
Ken Edgerton Memorial
Lethbridge & District
4-H Beef Committee
Lilydale Co-operative
Marilyn Sue Lloyd Memorial
Norma Jean Gray
Pennington Memorial
Petro-Canada 4-H Youth
Leadership Award
Stanley Shulhan Memorial
Thomas Caryk Memorial
TX Bar (1)
TX Bar (2)
TX Bar (3)
United Farmers of Alberta
United Grain Growers
Wetaskiwin District 4-H
Scholai ship
$ 500 Tracy Morev
$ 500 Cody Jackson
$ 300 Joanne Neufeld
$ 400 Gail Roessler
$ 250 Derek Smith
$ 800 Leonard Hendricks
$ 100 Steven Stalker
$1000 Carla Bonde
each Susan Echlin
Kimberlv Lindeman
David MacDougall
Jaylyn Ettinger
L0
Innisf ree
Mayerthorpe
Sundre
Gem
Sexsmith
Warner
Strathmore
Carbon
Rocky Mtn. House
Cayley
Milk River
Champion
Czar
$1257.16 Sherry Pfannmuller Mayerthorpe
each Holly Watson
$1000
each
$ 200
$ 500
$1000
$ 500
$ 400
$ 500
each
Erin Branson
Alana Stelten
Bonnie Lyzenga
Carrie Gotzke
Sangudo
Markerville
Milk River
Rosemary
Bon Accord
Marilyn Enders Barrhead
Alan Hogg Wembley
Darlene Donszelmann Millet
Therese Bjoern Wrentham
David Jans Medicine Hat
Deneen Stoby Gun
Christoph Weder Camrose
$ 500 Shelley Vanden Dungen Vauxhall
$ 500 Kerry Kijewski Westerose
each Tanya Stobbe Millet
Troy Stephan Wetaskiwin
(Cont 'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
1990 4-H scholarship recipients (cont'd)
Wheat Board Surplus Monies
Trust
Woodgrove Unifarra Local
Scholarship
World of Beef
$ 600
each
Louanna MacLeod
Brian King
Loretta Knowles
Lori Anderson
Catherine McGrath
Michelle Lemay
Mollv Davie
$ 561.92 Travis Visscher
$ 250 Darcv Stewart
11
Stavely
Olds
Byeraoor
Bowden
Verrail ion
Grande Prairie
Drayton Valley
Riviere Qui Barre
Strathraore
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
September 24. 1990
For immediate release
1.'
Old and new ways to battle frost
Misting tender crops is a proven way to battle frost injury says an
Alberta Agriculture specialist.
Most frost injurv at the growing season's end occurs around
sunrise, and the potential threat is for a short time. "Using
irrigation water is a practical and inexpensive way of reducing that
frost injury. It needs to be properly timed to avoid heavy wetting of
soil, but can save tender plants at the end of the growing season." savs
Belinda Choban. vegetable crop extension specialist at the Alberta Tree
Nursery and Horticultural Centre in Edmonton.
"This makes using the irrigation system feasible because it's a
short term protection tool." she adds.
The study of frost and how it forms has opened doors to new methods
of frost injury control, she says. These methods are based on knowledge
about ice nucleation-active bacteria.
Before ice can form, ice nucleation must occur. Certain bacteria
on the plants start this ice forming process. These bacteria live in
large numbers on the leaf surfaces of healthy plants. The amount of
frost damage increases with the number of ice nucleation-active bacteria
on a plant. So. reducing the bacteria population results in a
corresponding decrease in frost injury.
Three frost-prevention methods that use this knowledge are
application of bactericides, application of antagonistic bacteria and
inhibition of bacterial ice nucleation. The first two methods take time
to work by either killing the nucleation bacteria or establishing other
bacteria in competition with the nucleation-active bacteria. The third
method however, acts more quickly and offers virtual day-before frost
prevention. It's achieved by chemical and or physical stresses
including extreme pHs . heavy metal ions in a soluble solution and some
detergents .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Old and new ways to battle frost (cont'd)
Through genetic engineering scientists have also produced
genetically altered bacteria that can prevent ice nucleation in any of
those three ways. Choban adds. However, the technology is still in the
developmental stage and isn't readily available.
Another type of frost control is with specific products, such as
Frost-Free. No-Frost and Frost-Guard. "Insufficient research has been
done for Alberta Agriculture to recommend these products at this time,"
she says .
Another frost protection option is floating mulches. These
polyester materials offer three to four degrees Celsius of frost
protection. "Some injury to foliage has been observed where there's
direct contact with the floating mulch. But if carefully handled, the
floating mulch can be reused, and it isn't an environmental hazard."
Choban says .
30
Contact :
Belinda Choban
422-1789
Paul Ragan
362-3391
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
1/.
September 24, 1990
For immediate release
Water part of fall lawn care
Preparing your farmstead for winter includes the right care for the
lawn says an Alberta Agriculture horticulturist.
"Moisture, whether its from rain or watering, is an important part
of getting your lawn ready for the winter." says Pam North, information
officer at the Alberta Tree Nursery and Horticultural Centre in
Edmonton .
Lawns don't need water as frequently as they do in summer. If fall
weather is dry. water the lawn occasionally to prevent the roots from
drying out .
Water lawns before the ground freezes so there's available moisture
for grass roots in the spring. The ground usually freezes toward the
end of October or earlv November, so give the lawn a thorough watering
before then, she says.
Nor does she recommend using fertilizer in the fall. "We recommend
stopping fertilizer applications by mid-August. This gives the lawn
enough time to harden off before winter. Lawns that are actively
growing in the fall, may be damaged by an early winter." she says.
If the grass keeps growing, it doesn't hurt to continue mowing.
Long grass is susceptible to snow mold. It can also be home to mice
that cause considerable damage to lawn and other places around the farm
yard .
"But don't cut the grass too short. This exposes the crowns to
freezing or desiccation injury, particularly if there isn't enough snow
cover." North says. A normal mowing height of four to five centimetres
(one and a half to two inches) is best.
30
Contact: Pam North
422-1789
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
15
September 24. 1990
For immediate release
Agri-News briefs
FARM ANIMAL WELFARE IN THE '90S SEMINAR
The Alberta Institute of Agrology is sponsoring a one-day seminar
about farm animal welfare in the 1990s October 19 in Edmonton. Among
the topics on the agenda are: animal welfare as a social issue; what is
animal welfare and how to measure it; issues in the poultry industry:
alternative swine housing: Alberta legislation: and. how housing and
chronic stress affect the physiology and behavior of animals. A hog. a
cattle and a poultry producer will all present their views, as will a
Humane Society representative. The seminar will be of interest to
livestock producers, agriculture teachers and students, professionals
who work with livestock producers, representatives of financial and
insurance institutions and designers, manufacturers and distributors of
livestock buildings and equipment. The seminar location is Salon 1 of
Northlands Agricom. The registration fee is $50 ($25 for students). It
includes, lunch and a copy of the proceedings. The registration
deadline is October 12. For more information, contact John Chang at
427-2181 .
FOOD. PESTICIDE ANALYSIS FOCUS OF NEW AG CANADA FACILITY
A new Agriculture Canada laboratory designed for regulatory and
research duties using new technology and state-of-the-art equipment was
officially opened in Calgary this month. The $20 million 6.500 square
metre lab and office facility will concentrate on food and pesticide
analysis. Pesticide analysis will ensure fresh and processed foods are
free of pesticide residues caused by environmental contamination or
misuse of chemicals. Staff will also analyze pesticides to determine if
chemical ingredients are consistent with product labels. In the food
laboratory, staff will analyze processed meat, diary, egg, fruit and
vegetable products to detect bacteria. They will test for preservative.
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
16
FOOD. PESTICIDE ANALYSIS FOCUS OF NEW AG CANADA FACILITY (cont'd)
drug and antibiotic residues. Staff will also develop rapid tests for
detecting bacteria and other contaminants. For more information on the
laboratory and its inspection programs, contact its director Ralph
Onciul in Calgary at 289-/021.
OVERWINTERING GERANIUMS
You can save geraniums for next year's flower boxes and beds by
digging them up before the first heavy frost. The annual flower can be
easily overwintered indoors from one year to the next, says Pam North,
horticulturist at the Alberta Tree Nursery and Horticultural Centre in
Edmonton. Once dug up. place the plants quite close together in a box
or other container. Cover the roots with a light potting soil or a
mixture of peat moss and vermiculite or peat moss and perlite. Cut the
plants back quite severely, so only branch stubs remain. Then place
them in a cool . dark location at a temperature between four and seven
degrees Celsius. Water the soil before storing. During the winter
water enough to prevent the plants from shrivelling. Allow the soil to
dry out completely between waterings. An alternate method is to shake
soil off the roots and hang upside down in a cool dark place. Cutting
tops aren't necessary as they will dry off. Bring the plants out of
storage in late February and pot them in individual containers in a high
quality potting soil. Place in a sunny window, preferably with a
southern exposure. If you want to take cuttings off the plants, bring
them up in January. For more information, contact North in Edmonton at
422-1789.
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
This Week
Ministers release Crow Benefit method of payment proposal 1
Provincial soil conservation workshop in January 4
Mowing and shredding to manage crop residue 5
1990 Queen Mother scholarship recipients 6
Treat cattle lice in fall, not spring 8
Briefs 9
/dlberra
AGRICULTURE
Print Media Branch
Phone: (403) 427-2121
i
October 1. 1990
For immediate release
1
Ministers release Crow Benefit method of payment proposal
Agriculture Minister Ernie Isley and Associate Agriculture Minister
Shirley McClellan have released an Alberta Department of Agriculture
proposal for a prairie-wide change in the method of payment of the Crow
Benefit under the Western Grain Transportation Act (WGTA) .
The new proposal, entitled "Freedom to Choose", calls for a federal
government buy out of the Crow Benefit. Also proposed are revisions to
the Western Grain Transportation Act rate structure and to regulations
which now discourage efficiency in the grain handling and transportation
system.
"What this proposal offers is a workable means of achieving Western
Canada's key objectives for the improvement of grain handling and
transportation policy, while returning freedom of choice to our
farmers." says Isley. "We want to see control over resource allocation,
transportation, production and marketing decisions returned to the hands
of farmers, where it belongs.
"One of our most important considerations regarding the Crow
Benefit is its future treatment given the likely outcome of the current
GATT negotiations. We don't know yet what settlement will be reached
under GATT. but it is becoming increasingly clear that transportation
subsidies targeted at export commodities are going to come under tough
scrutiny by the international trading community. The Freedom to Choose
proposal would see the transportation subsidy removed from being a
potential source of concern for Canada's trading partners. If we do
nothing, if we try to stick with the status quo. we risk losing the Crow
Benefit entirely."
A key feature of the new proposal is that it would allow farmers
greater freedom to respond to conditions in the marketplace, and to
promote change and improvement in the grain handling and transportation
system .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Ministers release Crow Benefit method of payment proposal (cont'd)
McClellan notes. "Regardless of the future outcome of the GATT
negotiations, we know that the status quo is not a feasible option for
Western Canada's grain transportation system. Rising costs and
inefficiencies in the system make it essential that we find a viable
alternative to the current method of payment of the Crow Benefit. The
new Alberta Agriculture proposal offers such an alternative."
The Freedom to Choose proposal identifies four objectives for
Western Canada in the improvement of grain handling and transportation
policy. These are: first, to remove the market distortion currently
affecting domestic grain prices: second, to help ensure that government
support measures are production-neutral, trade -neutral and foster
environmental sustainabil i ty ; third, to encourage the development of a
more market-responsive, cost-effective grain handling and transportation
system: and. fourth, to improve the ability of Canadian farmers to
compete in the global marketplace.
"The Freedom to Choose proposal meets each of these objectives."
says McClellan. "The potential benefits to Western Canadians of
implementing the proposal on a prairie-wide basis are tremendous."
Among the potential benefits noted in the proposal are: the
expansion and increased competitiveness of the livestock and other
value-added sectors: the removal of distortions in grain prices: the
promotion of environmental sustainabil ity through increased forage
production and reduced incentive to expand grain production onto
marginal lands and wetlands; net savings in transportation costs of more
than $100 million per year during the first 10 years of implementation,
and increased savings in the years to follow: and. stabilization and
enhancement of farm income throughout the Western Canadian agricultural
sector .
The Freedom to Choose proposal was developed within the principles
governing the federal/provincial Agri-Food Policy Review now underway,
and is intended to build on the progress made to date on transportation
issues through the review process.
(Cont'd)
00
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Ministers release Crow Benefit method of payment proposal (cont'd)
Anyone wishing to obtain copies of the Freedom to Choose proposal
is encouraged to contact Ken Beswick. chairman of Alberta Agriculture's
Planning Secretariat. 3rd Floor, J.G. 0 ' Donoghue Building. 7000-113
Street. Edmonton. T6H 5T6 . telephone (403)427-2417.
30
Contact :
Ken Beswick
427-2417
427-2417
Gordon Herrington
Brad Klak
Executive assistant
Louise Riopel
Executive assistant
to the minister
427-2137
to the associate minister
422-9156
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
October 1 . 1990
For immediate release
4
Provincial soil conservation workshop in Januarv
Making soil conservation pay is the theme of the second annual
provincial soil conservation workshop scheduled for Edmonton January 15
through 17.
"The workshop is open to anyone who would like to attend." says its
co-ordinator Peter Gamache . of Alberta Agriculture's conservation and
development branch. "We hope to see a good turnout of producers,
producer group representatives, agricultural fieldmen. agricultural
service board members, extension staff, researchers and other interested
parties . "
Gamache says the workshop will emphasize productive and
economically viable soil conservation cropping systems. Among the
topics under discussion will be: soil moisture management, conservation
economics, conservation equipment, soil conservation research and
producer presentations on their soil conservation experiences.
"Producers will play a leading role in many of the presentations," he
says .
The workshop will also feature presentations and displays by
agricultural service boards and producer groups. These displays will
show their 1990 activities as well as be a forum to exchange ideas.
This year's conference has a new sponsor. "The participation of
the Alberta Conservation Tillage Society (ACTS) is a valuable addition
to the workshop," says Gamache. ACTS annual meeting will be the first
evening of the workshop.
The other workshop co-sponsors are the Canada/Alberta Soil
Conservation Initiative (CASCI) and the Canada/Alberta Agreement on
Soil. Water and Cropping Research and Technology Transfer (CARTT)
program .
Registration forms will be available in November. For more
information about the workshop, contact Gamache in Edmonton at 422-4385
or ACTS executive secretary Russ Evans in Langdon at 936-5306.
30
Contact: Peter Gamache
422-4385
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
October 1. 1990
For immediate release
5
Mowing and shredding to manage crop residue
Managing crop residue has become a soil and water conservation
issue in the Nampa area of Alberta's Peace River region.
"Area farmers are looking for alternatives to burning." savs John
Zylstra. Alberta Agriculture regional soil conservation co-ordinator .
With assistance from the Canada/Alberta Soil Conservation
Initiative (CASCI). Improvement District 17 West's agricultural service
board (ASB) bought two 15 foot rotary mowers and demonstrated how they
could be used to mow crop residue before seeding a crop into stubble.
"Approximately 4,000 acres of stubble in the area were mowed
instead of being burned." says John Heinonen. of the Prairie Farm
Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) in Peace River. "The mowing
operation also helped farmers reduce the number of necessary tillage
operations before fields could be seeded with normal duty hoe drills or
double disc drills."
The ASB rented the mower out for $70 per day. "Farmers were
standing in line to use the mowers when they were first delivered to the
municipal building." says John Heppleston. soil conservation technician
for the municipality and the Nampa Tillage Group.
"Co-operating farmers were happy to leave the residue on the field
and add to soil organic matter, rather than burning it and losing it to
the air." says Zylstra.
Mowing and shredding was done most often where straight combining
left tall stubble or where barley or clover couldn't be harvested last
fall because of wet weather. Mowers did a reasonably good job at speeds
up to 12 km/h.
The mowers' performance on clovers and other green manure crops
this summer has also been evaluated. "When green manure crops are very
growthy. they can plug up plows or require many discing operations.
Mowing or shredding them can be a very cost effective way of preparing
them for soil incorporation." says Heinonen.
30
Contact: John Zylstra John Heinonen
835-2291 624-3388\3386
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
October 1. 1990
For immediate release
1990 Queen Mother scholarship recipients
Three Alberta students have been named the 1990 recipients of the
"Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother" Scholarship.
Christine Erichsen of Botha. Julie Dechant of Manning, and Patricia
Kirylchuk of Lac La Biche will each receive $1500 awards in recognition
of their academic achievement, leadership abilities and contribution to
their communities.
CHRISTINE ERICHSEN
JULIE DECHANT
PATRICIA KIRYLCHUK
Erichsen, 18. is in her first year of a BSc in agriculture program
at Camrose Luthern University College. She was raised on a mixed farm
and has been an active 4-H member since 1982. In high school. Erichsen
was a member of the School Reach Team (an academic challenge team) . a
curling club skip and held various positions on the student council .
She is an active guest speaker and mistress of ceremonies at community
functions, and in 1989 was a delegate at the Forum for Young Canadians
in Ottawa.
Dechant, 18. is in her first year of agriculture at the University
of Alberta. She is studying pre-veterinary medicine.
(Cont'd)
m
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
7
1990 Queen Mother scholarship recipients (cont'd)
A former 4-H member. Dechant has also been active with the Hawk
Hills Agricultural Society and has helped out at the Lakewood Equestrian
Center through the last few summers. She has received numerous academic
awards and was class representative on her high school students' union.
Kirylchuk. 21, is taking her first year of veterinary medicine
(large animal) at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in
Saskatoon.
She previously attended the University of Alberta, where she was a
group leader with Intervarsity Christian Fellowship. Kirylchuk is a
past 4-H member, current 4-H Alumni member and a six year member of the
Lac La Biche Ukranian Dancers. She is active in her community both at
home and at school .
The "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother" Scholarship was
established in 1985, as a gift to the Queen Mother from the Alberta
government. The Queen Mother attended the World Angus Forum in
Edmonton in July of that year. The scholarship recognizes and assists
deserving young Albertans in their first, second, third or fourth year
of study in the fields of agriculture, agricultural engineering, home
economics, or veterinary medicine (large animal).
This scholarship is sponsored by Alberta Agriculture, administered
by the 4-H branch and given out in the name of Her Majesty, the Queen
Mother .
30
Contact: Val Runyon
422-4444
AGRII
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
October I . I
For immediat e release
Treat cattle lice in fall . not spring
Warmer temperatures in the spring make lice on cattle more visible,
but spring isn't the time of vear to treat cattle for the pests savs an
Alberta Agriculture specialist.
"The types and methods of treatment are limited in the spring."
says Ali Khan, a livestock entomologist. "These restrictions are
because some chemicals aren't recommended before calving and for cows
nursing calves. The best time for lice treatment is November and
December . "
Khan savs farmers should be alert for two common types of lice that
infest cattle in Alberta. There are sucking lice that feed on the
animal's blood by piercing the skin. Chewing lice are scavengers that
feed on solid materials such as hair, loose scales from the skin and
clotted dried blood.
Sucking lice are about an eighth of an inch long, are slate-blue,
and have a short head with a beak and powerful legs with claws. Chewing
lice are about half that size at 1/16 inch long, have a reddish brown
head, pale body, large head with chewing mouth parts and don't have
claws .
"It's very important to identify the type of lice before applying a
treatment. This can save a livestock producer money, labor and time by
using the right treatment or integrating specific pest management
techniques." he says.
Both types of lice can be controlled by a contact insecticide.
Used during winter months, residues will stay on hair and skin for long
term control. Systemic insecticides are an effective, although short
term way to control blood sucking lice. Repeated treatments may be
necessary to control a lice problem.
For more information, producers can contact their local Alberta
Agriculture district agriculturist or Khan in Edmonton at 427-5083.
30
Contact: Ali Khan
427-5083
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
October 1. 1990
For immediate release
Agri-News briefs
VIDEO PACKAGE HELPS RURAL ORGANIZATIONS MARKET THEMSELVES
Marketing canola and calves is more familiar territory for rural
Albertans than selling their organizations to and in their communities.
"But. marketing is as vital to an organization as it is to any business,
and the marketplace for members' time, energy and commitment is as
competitive as the one where you sell your products," says Sabine Zenke .
of the home economics branch. "So. effective promotion of your
organization can make a dramatic contribution to its success." The
"Spotlight on Marketing" video tape package can help rural organizations
enhance themselves, keep existing members and attract new ones.
Included in the "Spotlight on Marketing" package is the video tape, an
instructor's guide and participant workbook. "The package is especially
for presidents and staff or board members involved in public relations,
but can be shown to the whole membership." she says. The presentation
includes an overview of the marketing concept and the role of external
and internal communications in an organization. If you or your
organization are interested in the package, contact the nearest Alberta
Agriculture district office or the write Alberta Agriculture Film
Library in Edmonton at 7000-113 Street. T6H 5T6 . As well, a f actsheet .
"Promoting your organization's activities" (Homedex 1926-50), is
available through district offices and the Alberta Agriculture
Publications Office. 7000-113 Street. Edmonton. T6H 5T6 .
FARM MACHINERY FIRES REPORT RELEASED
Alberta Agriculture's farm safety program has completed a report of
farm machinery fires in the province for 1988 and 1989. Farm equipment
fires caused nearly $2 million damage during those two years in 256
fires. "This report will guide and enhance fire prevention education
and awareness programs we do in the future." says Solomon Kyeremanteng .
(Cont'd)
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
Agri-News briefs (cont'd)
10
FARM MACHINERY FIRES REPORT RELEASED (cont'd)
the program's manager. Over one-third of the fires occurred during the
harvest months of September and October. Most fires began in the engine
area and almost half were caused by mechanical or electrical failure.
Only three injuries were reported for the tractor, combine and grain
dryer fires. The average dollar loss per fire increased by 37 per cent
between the two years, reaching just over $8,500 in 1989. For copies of
the report, call or write the Alberta Agriculture Farm Safety Program at
7000-113 Street. Edmonton. Alberta. T6H 5T6 or 427-2186.
GREENING OF THE '90S CONFERENCE
The greening of the 1990s and solutions to emerging environmental
concerns is the title of a two-day conference of the Canadian Water
Resources Association and the Alberta Society of Professional
Biologists. The conference will be held at the Mayfield Inn in Edmonton
October 23 and 24. The opening plenary session will look at what
concerns the public most and why, positive actions in a global and local
context and the multipurpose use philosophy of water management.
Concurrent sessions through the two days will examine issues in water
conservation, resource management, water quality, control processes and
solid waste management. The conference finale is a panel presentation
and discussion on the role of public, government and industry in
finding solutions. For registration information, contact David Walker
at 436-0618 (FAX 437-4031). For more information, contact Lynn Kemper
at 422-4232.
30
Alberta Agriculture, Information Services Division
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