Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Approximately 30 kilometres between Biggar and Rosetown is a picturesque farm perched on the top of a hill, surrounded by a beautiful rolling valley dotted with sheep, and a lovely, secluded dam in the middle of the sea of green grass.
Sheila Sperling-Law, her husband Fred, and their family are the owners and operators of this scenic farm. Along with it, they run Prairie Fibre Mill, the only fibre mill in Saskatchewan, as well as a retail shop.
Needless to say, with so much on the go, the entire family is kept extremely busy.
Sheila can normally be found in the barn working with the spinning equipment. This tall, slim woman with her down-to-earth manner and dimpled smile radiates vitality, purpose and determination.
She said, "In '98, Fred and I moved to my home area after living in Alberta for 18 years. Fred had never been in Saskatchewan before the day we arrived with all of our belongings. We purchased a small acreage and bought five bred ewes. Fred, my mother and I started to hand spin."
They started out small, hand spinning and knitting items for trade fairs and craft shows. Most buyers were not interested in the hand spinning as much as the hand knitting, so they had some of their fibre spun at a commercial mill.
After growing tired of waiting months for their fibre to be processed, the Law family decided to look at starting their own mill.
On July 20, 2005, they received their shipment of custom equipment and underwent one week of training. By the end of September, the custom work got going.
They now process wool from sheep, bison, alpaca, llama and rabbit, as well as other fibres. Demand for their skills has proven to be incredible-so much so that they are currently almost three months behind in their custom yarn-making business.
"We advertise by word of mouth, and have customers from B.C. to Ontario," said Sheila. "They will either send their wool to us by bus or deliver it in person. Some people make a vacation out of the trip."
Attached to the barn/workshop is the retail store, a very quaint, homey place that may very well entice you to pick up some needles and start knitting.
The store boasts a variety of products, several of which are homemade by the Law family, as well as items featured for sale by other local artists and artisans.
The Laws own 55 Merino and 65 Shetland sheep, from which they sell wool through their store and meat at the farm gate. Among the goods offered for purchase are yarn, roves, quilt batting and felts. The wool is also available as value-added products, including sweaters, socks, hats and mittens, as well as stuffed toys, saddle blankets, mitten inserts and wall hangings made of felt.
The Law family farm is not connected to the provincial power grid, but generates its own electricity to run the entire operation. A generator is used to drive the mill equipment, and a heat exchanger heats the barn and loft areas in the winter months. The generator also charges huge batteries that are used to power the barn and to store power so that the generator is not running all the time. Solar panels on the house roof and a small windmill provide power for the house, including the hot water heater.
The Prairie Fibre Mill is indeed a special place to visit. "Our store is open from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. every weekday and on Saturday," Sheila said. "If customers are unable to come during those hours, they are welcome to give us a call for other arrangements."
She also noted that the family is very happy to offer individual and group tours of its unique operation.
"We run tours through the lambing barns, and have a hands-on demonstration of different fibre types. Then we demonstrate drop spinning and hand spinning, tour the mill and make a small felt project," she stated.
Tours can be arranged by calling (in advance, please) (306) 882-4542 or e-mailing themill@sasktel.net. There is a small charge of $5 per person.
"We are so pleased to be living here and to offer the services of our mill to fibre producers," Sheila said. "Come for a visit!"
For more information, contact:
Fred Law and Sheila Sperling-Law
Phone: (306) 882-4542
e-mail: themill@sasktel.net
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Insurance Options for Fall-Seeded Crops
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Producers with acres left unseeded this spring due to excess moisture may be considering seeding a winter cereal crop this autumn. For those who want to manage the risk of fall-seeded acres, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation provides winterkill, spring establishment and yield-loss coverage on fall rye and winter wheat.
Winterkill coverage is a separate coverage option. Producers have until August 25 to select winterkill insurance for fall rye and winter wheat crops seeded on or before September 15. The premium for this option will appear on their Statement of Insurance in 2007.
"Optimum seeding dates are between the last week of August and the first week of September, depending on your area," said Saskatchewan Crop Insurance agrologist Chris Stewart. "Seeding typically extends over a month, from mid-August to mid-September."
He added, "Crop Insurance recognizes that the winter cereal manual indicates the ideal seeding date for winter cereals is between August 27 and September 6. However, our policy allows producers to seed until September 15 in the event of less-than-ideal conditions."
Winterkill coverage on winter wheat is available in southwestern risk zones three, four and 10, and in northeastern RMs 394, 395, 426, 456 and 486, if seeded into stubble, summerfallow or chemfallow.
Coverage is available outside these areas if seeded into undisturbed standing stubble or chemfallow, but only if there is sufficient stubble (minimum of six inches or 15 centimetres) to trap enough snow to insulate the crop.
"Six inches of stubble is a requirement of coverage outside those designated areas," said Stewart. "It's necessary to help keep the crown of the plant at a survivable temperature throughout the winter."
Acres that do not qualify for winterkill coverage, or that were not selected for winterkill coverage by the deadline, may still be eligible for yield-loss coverage in 2007 if they establish in the spring. Crops seeded in the fall of 2006 and insured against yield-loss by March 31, 2007 will be covered for spring-related establishment losses. Those acres will be inspected to determine if they qualify for the establishment payment of $20 per acre.
Producers with any questions about insuring fall-seeded crops should contact their customer service office or call 1-888-935-0000.
For more information, contact:
Chris Stewart, Agricultural Specialist
Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation
Phone: (306) 728-7284
Producers with acres left unseeded this spring due to excess moisture may be considering seeding a winter cereal crop this autumn. For those who want to manage the risk of fall-seeded acres, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation provides winterkill, spring establishment and yield-loss coverage on fall rye and winter wheat.
Winterkill coverage is a separate coverage option. Producers have until August 25 to select winterkill insurance for fall rye and winter wheat crops seeded on or before September 15. The premium for this option will appear on their Statement of Insurance in 2007.
"Optimum seeding dates are between the last week of August and the first week of September, depending on your area," said Saskatchewan Crop Insurance agrologist Chris Stewart. "Seeding typically extends over a month, from mid-August to mid-September."
He added, "Crop Insurance recognizes that the winter cereal manual indicates the ideal seeding date for winter cereals is between August 27 and September 6. However, our policy allows producers to seed until September 15 in the event of less-than-ideal conditions."
Winterkill coverage on winter wheat is available in southwestern risk zones three, four and 10, and in northeastern RMs 394, 395, 426, 456 and 486, if seeded into stubble, summerfallow or chemfallow.
Coverage is available outside these areas if seeded into undisturbed standing stubble or chemfallow, but only if there is sufficient stubble (minimum of six inches or 15 centimetres) to trap enough snow to insulate the crop.
"Six inches of stubble is a requirement of coverage outside those designated areas," said Stewart. "It's necessary to help keep the crown of the plant at a survivable temperature throughout the winter."
Acres that do not qualify for winterkill coverage, or that were not selected for winterkill coverage by the deadline, may still be eligible for yield-loss coverage in 2007 if they establish in the spring. Crops seeded in the fall of 2006 and insured against yield-loss by March 31, 2007 will be covered for spring-related establishment losses. Those acres will be inspected to determine if they qualify for the establishment payment of $20 per acre.
Producers with any questions about insuring fall-seeded crops should contact their customer service office or call 1-888-935-0000.
For more information, contact:
Chris Stewart, Agricultural Specialist
Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation
Phone: (306) 728-7284
Organic Growth at Galarneau Farms
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
When Alex and Robert Galarneau's father first started looking into organic farming, it was 1981, and not quite the readily accepted practice it is today.
"We got called a lot of things," son Alex recalls, "but 'trailblazers' wasn't one of them."
Alex says he grew along with the industry, working in organic farming since he was 17 years old. Over the last 25 years, the Galarneau farm has gone from a family business to an organic farming and processing business, with nine employees on the payroll and 87 producers on contract.
Alex describes the choice to go organic on the farm as an important matter of diversification.
"Back in the early 1980s, we were fifty-fifty fallow. We knew we would have to go with high inputs or branch off…so we branched off."
Alex says what the family didn't like about their farm business at the time was that they were always dependent on prices and costs that were out of their control. They investigated what was then called "chemical free grain" and decided it offered better control of their own resources, and possibly a better way to make a living from farming.
Galarneau Farms was one of the first to bring organic certification to Saskatchewan, and that certification put them on the map. Other producers who were attracted to the organic market didn't always want to handle the marketing aspects, and Galarneau Farms became known as the people to ask.
"We were always out there, ready to share information," says Alex. "Some people didn't want to do their own marketing, so they relied on our expertise."
It's expertise that pays to know: Alex says every farm working with them can generally be guaranteed a profit on an average crop year.
"We're very free with our information," says Alex. "We always have people coming in and asking for advice on how to get started, whether they should (get into the business), that kind of thing."
Alex says for producers considering branching off into organic production, there are some very important considerations.
"You have got to question why. If it's because you're already experiencing financial hardship, I don't know if this will help."
The Galarneaus' marketing expertise also helped them expand into processing of all crops. Today, their facility in Radville does primary cleaning and bagging of hard red spring wheat, kamut, oilseeds and other grains. Alex estimates they market for a land base of approximately 40,000 to 50,000 acres.
The hottest market for Galarneau Farms' product right now is Europe. European markets account for about 80 per cent of their business, as opposed to opportunities in North America, where organics still have some catching up to do.
"Europe is a more mature market," says Alex. "We are still realizing substantial growth in Europe, whereas North America is just kicking into high gear."
Alex estimates that Galarneau Farms' products, especially the kamut wheat, are found in 1,500 different products, from the familiar (pastas and bread) to the new (a variety of kamut-based milk launched in Europe in February 2006).
For more information, contact:
Alex Galarneau or Robert Galarneau
PHS Organics/Galarneau Farms
Phone: (306) 869-2926
When Alex and Robert Galarneau's father first started looking into organic farming, it was 1981, and not quite the readily accepted practice it is today.
"We got called a lot of things," son Alex recalls, "but 'trailblazers' wasn't one of them."
Alex says he grew along with the industry, working in organic farming since he was 17 years old. Over the last 25 years, the Galarneau farm has gone from a family business to an organic farming and processing business, with nine employees on the payroll and 87 producers on contract.
Alex describes the choice to go organic on the farm as an important matter of diversification.
"Back in the early 1980s, we were fifty-fifty fallow. We knew we would have to go with high inputs or branch off…so we branched off."
Alex says what the family didn't like about their farm business at the time was that they were always dependent on prices and costs that were out of their control. They investigated what was then called "chemical free grain" and decided it offered better control of their own resources, and possibly a better way to make a living from farming.
Galarneau Farms was one of the first to bring organic certification to Saskatchewan, and that certification put them on the map. Other producers who were attracted to the organic market didn't always want to handle the marketing aspects, and Galarneau Farms became known as the people to ask.
"We were always out there, ready to share information," says Alex. "Some people didn't want to do their own marketing, so they relied on our expertise."
It's expertise that pays to know: Alex says every farm working with them can generally be guaranteed a profit on an average crop year.
"We're very free with our information," says Alex. "We always have people coming in and asking for advice on how to get started, whether they should (get into the business), that kind of thing."
Alex says for producers considering branching off into organic production, there are some very important considerations.
"You have got to question why. If it's because you're already experiencing financial hardship, I don't know if this will help."
The Galarneaus' marketing expertise also helped them expand into processing of all crops. Today, their facility in Radville does primary cleaning and bagging of hard red spring wheat, kamut, oilseeds and other grains. Alex estimates they market for a land base of approximately 40,000 to 50,000 acres.
The hottest market for Galarneau Farms' product right now is Europe. European markets account for about 80 per cent of their business, as opposed to opportunities in North America, where organics still have some catching up to do.
"Europe is a more mature market," says Alex. "We are still realizing substantial growth in Europe, whereas North America is just kicking into high gear."
Alex estimates that Galarneau Farms' products, especially the kamut wheat, are found in 1,500 different products, from the familiar (pastas and bread) to the new (a variety of kamut-based milk launched in Europe in February 2006).
For more information, contact:
Alex Galarneau or Robert Galarneau
PHS Organics/Galarneau Farms
Phone: (306) 869-2926
Century Family Farm Award Great Legacies
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Saskatchewan has witnessed some remarkable contributions from its citizens over its 100-plus year history - none greater than those of its agricultural producers.
With the province now embarking on its second century, an increasing number of family farms around the province are similarly approaching their 100th anniversaries.
The Province of Saskatchewan created the Century Family Farm Award as a way to acknowledge and honour residents preparing to celebrate these historic milestones.
Since the program's inception in 1981, these awards have been presented to hundreds of Saskatchewan families.
"The Century Family Farm Award is a wonderful tribute to the pioneers who helped settle this province, and to their descendants who have worked hard for so many years to continue building upon their legacies," said Ellen Harder, the co-ordinator of the award program with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
"It's a way for the people of Saskatchewan to say 'thank you' to families who have contributed so much to this province over the years," she added. "And the pride you see on the faces of those receiving the award shows just how special it is to them."
The Trimble family of Elstow is one of those proud recipients.
Charlotte Trimble and her husband Don Hartz are the third generation to work the family farm that was settled by her grandfather Luther Trimble in 1906.
"We love Saskatchewan and we love the land," Trimble said. "While it's taken a lot of work and a lot of guts over the years, we're very proud of what's been accomplished on our farm over the past century. Receiving this honour was just the icing on the cake."
Application forms for the Century Family Farm Award can be found on the Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food website at www.agr.gov.sk.ca under Forms/General, or by using the website's Search function.
Hard copies of the form can also be obtained by contacting Ellen Harder at (306) 787-5216, or the Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
In order for a farming operation to be eligible, members of the same family must have farmed the land continuously for 100 years or more. Applicants are responsible for providing a written history of family ownership and/or verifying information offering reasonable proof of operation along with the application.
The family must live in Saskatchewan and continue to operate the farm. Applicants are eligible for one award per family.
Recipients have the option of receiving an etched glass figure, an indoor wall plaque, or a gate sign (for an additional fee). Certificates marking the honour may also be presented to family members as determined by the eligible family.
For more information, contact:
Ellen Harder, Co-ordinator
Century Family Farm Award Program
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-5216
Saskatchewan has witnessed some remarkable contributions from its citizens over its 100-plus year history - none greater than those of its agricultural producers.
With the province now embarking on its second century, an increasing number of family farms around the province are similarly approaching their 100th anniversaries.
The Province of Saskatchewan created the Century Family Farm Award as a way to acknowledge and honour residents preparing to celebrate these historic milestones.
Since the program's inception in 1981, these awards have been presented to hundreds of Saskatchewan families.
"The Century Family Farm Award is a wonderful tribute to the pioneers who helped settle this province, and to their descendants who have worked hard for so many years to continue building upon their legacies," said Ellen Harder, the co-ordinator of the award program with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
"It's a way for the people of Saskatchewan to say 'thank you' to families who have contributed so much to this province over the years," she added. "And the pride you see on the faces of those receiving the award shows just how special it is to them."
The Trimble family of Elstow is one of those proud recipients.
Charlotte Trimble and her husband Don Hartz are the third generation to work the family farm that was settled by her grandfather Luther Trimble in 1906.
"We love Saskatchewan and we love the land," Trimble said. "While it's taken a lot of work and a lot of guts over the years, we're very proud of what's been accomplished on our farm over the past century. Receiving this honour was just the icing on the cake."
Application forms for the Century Family Farm Award can be found on the Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food website at www.agr.gov.sk.ca under Forms/General, or by using the website's Search function.
Hard copies of the form can also be obtained by contacting Ellen Harder at (306) 787-5216, or the Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
In order for a farming operation to be eligible, members of the same family must have farmed the land continuously for 100 years or more. Applicants are responsible for providing a written history of family ownership and/or verifying information offering reasonable proof of operation along with the application.
The family must live in Saskatchewan and continue to operate the farm. Applicants are eligible for one award per family.
Recipients have the option of receiving an etched glass figure, an indoor wall plaque, or a gate sign (for an additional fee). Certificates marking the honour may also be presented to family members as determined by the eligible family.
For more information, contact:
Ellen Harder, Co-ordinator
Century Family Farm Award Program
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-5216
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Soybean Processing Comes to Saskatchewan
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
A new state-of-the-art facility for processing soybeans could provide the Saskatchewan agricultural sector with its latest value-added innovation.
Biosynergeuticals Inc., or BioSyn for short, recently held an open house at its production site in Wynyard to unveil a ground-breaking pilot project.
The BioSyn technology is capable of extracting enzymes from soybeans, which have shown promising health benefits in the treatment of a diverse range of ailments, from diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure to acne, hives and allergic reactions.
The enzymes are removed using an innovative process that Lorne Nystrom, one of the founding members of BioSyn, calls "cutting edge, one-of-a-kind technology."
Nystrom said, "No one else in the world has this technology. We have it here in Wynyard, and we hope to take it world-wide."
The company's machinery can process batches of soybeans in 30 to 40 seconds, producing a liquid extract that removes five per cent of the soybean by weight and leaves the remainder intact for other uses, such as the production of cattle feed or tofu.
Nystrom said BioSyn will operate the Wynyard facility as a pilot project demonstration plant using a single machine for now, while the company proceeds with global product marketing and investigates additional financing opportunities.
According to Nystrom, there is a great deal of interest in the product in Asia, where aggressive promotion is currently taking place. The American and European markets are also being targeted for growth.
BioSyn is presently awaiting approval from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to sell the extract as a food in this country. In time, it is hoped the product can also be marketed in Canada as a health food, although that process can be quite lengthy.
The Wynyard processing facility is located in a former water bottling plant that sat unused for more than10 years until it was converted by BioSyn for its present use. The soybeans currently processed at the site are all grown by a local producer.
While the company's proponents feel the sky's the limit when it comes to their innovation, Nystrom said they are taking a gradual, step-by-step approach to prospective expansion.
"Our first step is to firm up markets and incorporate additional investment from folks who are expressing a great deal of interest in our technology," he said.
"We have the ability to handle some commercial processing using the single machine we currently have set up. We'll expand from there as need be," he added, noting the 45,000-square-foot Wynyard plant has room for 90 machines in addition to office space.
"Our goal is to take Wynyard, and Saskatchewan, world-wide," said Nystrom.
For further information, contact:
Lorne Nystrom, Chair, BioSyn Inc.
(306) 775-2326
A new state-of-the-art facility for processing soybeans could provide the Saskatchewan agricultural sector with its latest value-added innovation.
Biosynergeuticals Inc., or BioSyn for short, recently held an open house at its production site in Wynyard to unveil a ground-breaking pilot project.
The BioSyn technology is capable of extracting enzymes from soybeans, which have shown promising health benefits in the treatment of a diverse range of ailments, from diabetes, cholesterol and high blood pressure to acne, hives and allergic reactions.
The enzymes are removed using an innovative process that Lorne Nystrom, one of the founding members of BioSyn, calls "cutting edge, one-of-a-kind technology."
Nystrom said, "No one else in the world has this technology. We have it here in Wynyard, and we hope to take it world-wide."
The company's machinery can process batches of soybeans in 30 to 40 seconds, producing a liquid extract that removes five per cent of the soybean by weight and leaves the remainder intact for other uses, such as the production of cattle feed or tofu.
Nystrom said BioSyn will operate the Wynyard facility as a pilot project demonstration plant using a single machine for now, while the company proceeds with global product marketing and investigates additional financing opportunities.
According to Nystrom, there is a great deal of interest in the product in Asia, where aggressive promotion is currently taking place. The American and European markets are also being targeted for growth.
BioSyn is presently awaiting approval from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to sell the extract as a food in this country. In time, it is hoped the product can also be marketed in Canada as a health food, although that process can be quite lengthy.
The Wynyard processing facility is located in a former water bottling plant that sat unused for more than10 years until it was converted by BioSyn for its present use. The soybeans currently processed at the site are all grown by a local producer.
While the company's proponents feel the sky's the limit when it comes to their innovation, Nystrom said they are taking a gradual, step-by-step approach to prospective expansion.
"Our first step is to firm up markets and incorporate additional investment from folks who are expressing a great deal of interest in our technology," he said.
"We have the ability to handle some commercial processing using the single machine we currently have set up. We'll expand from there as need be," he added, noting the 45,000-square-foot Wynyard plant has room for 90 machines in addition to office space.
"Our goal is to take Wynyard, and Saskatchewan, world-wide," said Nystrom.
For further information, contact:
Lorne Nystrom, Chair, BioSyn Inc.
(306) 775-2326
Cheery Cherry Festival Coming in Bruno
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The third annual Cherry Festival in Bruno, August 11 to 13, will combine all things cherry with literary, educational and social pursuits. Marilyn Jonas, chair of the Carlton Trail Agricultural Society (which helps organize the festival) says there are a lot of new features this year.
"The festival starts out with a warm-up night on Friday, August 11, with the Literary Cherry Book Club," says Jonas. "We have a book club in town and they wanted to know what they could contribute, so they have organized a supper and an author discussion."
The supper costs $20 to attend and is followed by a discussion of the book What I'm Trying to Say is Goodbye, by Lois Simmie. Simmie will be there for the open discussion, which happens in conjunction with the Cherry Cheesecake Café. The café serves home-baked New-York-style cheesecake, with, of course, cherry topping. Performances of cowboy poetry throughout the festival round out the literary component.
The festival gets into full swing on Saturday, August 12, with educational seminars running from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. This year's seminars focus on fruit production and horticulture, as well as cooking and wine-making demonstrations. Local demonstrators will cook up a menu using cherries and other Saskatchewan-made products.
"This is 'real food' you would make in your own kitchen," says Jonas. "The cooks use a home-grown approach, so people can actually make these dishes themselves."
A wine-maker from Saskatoon will also be on hand to demonstrate wine-making with fruit. All these delicious dishes need fruit to get started, so there are also regular tours of the demonstration orchard, with "how to" sessions on grafting, planting and mulching.
A mini cherry trade show will also be open for both days of the festival, featuring fruit growers, educational and industry displays, and local businesses and artists. Also available is a cherry products booth, selling frozen cherries, cherry topping, and the more exotic cherry salsa and cherry vinaigrette.
Entertainment for all ages runs throughout the festival, including a children's carnival, a corn maze and wagon rides for the younger set. Older cherry enthusiasts can enjoy bingo, a licensed area, and dozens of cherry dishes to try.
Jones says one of the "can't miss" events is the ever-popular Cherry Pit Spit Challenge, in which contestants go through several run-off rounds for the honours of the farthest "pit spit."
"Those winners will take the big challenge on Sunday afternoon. It's made up of a final four, as well as celebrity spitters." Jonas is keeping the identities of the celebrity spitters a secret for the moment.
A complete schedule of events and more information about the festival is on the Internet at www.carltontrailagsociety.ca. A festival pass is $2.00 per person or $5.00 per family, and covers all events and activities, except for food and beverage purchases and the bingo tent.
For more information, contact:
Marilyn Jonas
Chair, Carlton Trail Agricultural Society
(306) 369-2824
www.carltontrailagsociety.ca
The third annual Cherry Festival in Bruno, August 11 to 13, will combine all things cherry with literary, educational and social pursuits. Marilyn Jonas, chair of the Carlton Trail Agricultural Society (which helps organize the festival) says there are a lot of new features this year.
"The festival starts out with a warm-up night on Friday, August 11, with the Literary Cherry Book Club," says Jonas. "We have a book club in town and they wanted to know what they could contribute, so they have organized a supper and an author discussion."
The supper costs $20 to attend and is followed by a discussion of the book What I'm Trying to Say is Goodbye, by Lois Simmie. Simmie will be there for the open discussion, which happens in conjunction with the Cherry Cheesecake Café. The café serves home-baked New-York-style cheesecake, with, of course, cherry topping. Performances of cowboy poetry throughout the festival round out the literary component.
The festival gets into full swing on Saturday, August 12, with educational seminars running from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. This year's seminars focus on fruit production and horticulture, as well as cooking and wine-making demonstrations. Local demonstrators will cook up a menu using cherries and other Saskatchewan-made products.
"This is 'real food' you would make in your own kitchen," says Jonas. "The cooks use a home-grown approach, so people can actually make these dishes themselves."
A wine-maker from Saskatoon will also be on hand to demonstrate wine-making with fruit. All these delicious dishes need fruit to get started, so there are also regular tours of the demonstration orchard, with "how to" sessions on grafting, planting and mulching.
A mini cherry trade show will also be open for both days of the festival, featuring fruit growers, educational and industry displays, and local businesses and artists. Also available is a cherry products booth, selling frozen cherries, cherry topping, and the more exotic cherry salsa and cherry vinaigrette.
Entertainment for all ages runs throughout the festival, including a children's carnival, a corn maze and wagon rides for the younger set. Older cherry enthusiasts can enjoy bingo, a licensed area, and dozens of cherry dishes to try.
Jones says one of the "can't miss" events is the ever-popular Cherry Pit Spit Challenge, in which contestants go through several run-off rounds for the honours of the farthest "pit spit."
"Those winners will take the big challenge on Sunday afternoon. It's made up of a final four, as well as celebrity spitters." Jonas is keeping the identities of the celebrity spitters a secret for the moment.
A complete schedule of events and more information about the festival is on the Internet at www.carltontrailagsociety.ca. A festival pass is $2.00 per person or $5.00 per family, and covers all events and activities, except for food and beverage purchases and the bingo tent.
For more information, contact:
Marilyn Jonas
Chair, Carlton Trail Agricultural Society
(306) 369-2824
www.carltontrailagsociety.ca
Saskatoon Berry Harvest Improves Over Last Year
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Saskatoon lovers will be licking their lips this year, as commercial growers in the province enjoyed a better-than-average harvest, according to Ken Adams of Valleytop Berry Farm near Langenburg.
Adams and his wife Kathy harvested 9,000 pounds of commercial berries this summer, on top of those gathered by patrons of their U-pick operation.
That was a noticeable improvement over last year, when cold, wet weather and an early frost left most growers in Saskatchewan with smaller crops, some of which were hit by disease.
Due to the hot, dry conditions this July, the saskatoon harvest also came and went very quickly across the province.
Ordinarily, Adams harvests his crops in two passes - one when about 60 to 70 per cent of the crop is ripe, and another when the remaining berries reach maturity.
This year, the berries on his farm ripened rapidly and had to be gathered in a single pass by the harvester, which made for a very busy season.
Adams noted that berry operations are like most other types of farming. "There are lots of overhead and input costs, and you've got to work hard at it to make a go of things," he said. And, like grain producers, he has found the price his commercial saskatoon crop fetches remains stubbornly low. As a result, Adams is studying the potential offered by export markets.
"If I've got an opportunity to improve my returns by expanding my market, that's something I have to look at very closely," he said.
In the meantime, saskatoon fans in Saskatchewan can look forward to enjoying their favourite pies, jams and jellies again this year.
Readers looking for saskatoon berry recipes should check out the website of the Saskatchewan Fruit Growers Association. Here they will find instructions on how to prepare a wide range of traditional berry favourites, as well as some unique, mouth-watering delicacies.
The website is located at www.saskfruit.com.
For more information, contact:
Ken Adams, Valleytop Berry Farm
(306) 743-2792
Saskatoon lovers will be licking their lips this year, as commercial growers in the province enjoyed a better-than-average harvest, according to Ken Adams of Valleytop Berry Farm near Langenburg.
Adams and his wife Kathy harvested 9,000 pounds of commercial berries this summer, on top of those gathered by patrons of their U-pick operation.
That was a noticeable improvement over last year, when cold, wet weather and an early frost left most growers in Saskatchewan with smaller crops, some of which were hit by disease.
Due to the hot, dry conditions this July, the saskatoon harvest also came and went very quickly across the province.
Ordinarily, Adams harvests his crops in two passes - one when about 60 to 70 per cent of the crop is ripe, and another when the remaining berries reach maturity.
This year, the berries on his farm ripened rapidly and had to be gathered in a single pass by the harvester, which made for a very busy season.
Adams noted that berry operations are like most other types of farming. "There are lots of overhead and input costs, and you've got to work hard at it to make a go of things," he said. And, like grain producers, he has found the price his commercial saskatoon crop fetches remains stubbornly low. As a result, Adams is studying the potential offered by export markets.
"If I've got an opportunity to improve my returns by expanding my market, that's something I have to look at very closely," he said.
In the meantime, saskatoon fans in Saskatchewan can look forward to enjoying their favourite pies, jams and jellies again this year.
Readers looking for saskatoon berry recipes should check out the website of the Saskatchewan Fruit Growers Association. Here they will find instructions on how to prepare a wide range of traditional berry favourites, as well as some unique, mouth-watering delicacies.
The website is located at www.saskfruit.com.
For more information, contact:
Ken Adams, Valleytop Berry Farm
(306) 743-2792
Discuss Anthrax Concerns with a Veterinarian
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The number of dead cattle attributed to anthrax reached 273 on 59 premises in Saskatchewan as of July 25, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
The vast majority of the cases have occurred in the northeast region of the province, where a total of 14 rural municipalities have thus far been affected. Most are located in areas that experienced heavy rainfall, flooding and excessive moisture this spring.
However, the spores that cause anthrax can potentially be buried anywhere across the prairies, according to Dr. Sandra Stephens with the Saskatoon branch of the CFIA.
"We've recently had a new case spring up in Chaplin, in the southwest part of the province, and a small outbreak in southern Manitoba," she said. "So we're still seeing a few new cases."
Stephens noted that cattle producers generally remain concerned about the disease. She is reminding farmers to speak with their veterinarians if they are particularly worried about the risk to their animals.
"Many producers are wondering whether they should vaccinate their cattle against anthrax," she said. "I would urge them to talk to their veterinarian. These professionals can provide them with the best possible advice on the matter."
Anthrax is spread by spores that can remain in the soil for long periods of time, then rise to the surface when there is excessive moisture or drought. Cattle can also be at risk when standing water dries up, revealing grazing areas that normally wouldn't be exposed. Excavation work done on some farms may likewise cause spores to emerge.
While Saskatchewan producers appear most concerned about cattle, Stephens noted that anthrax can occur in all mammals, particularly grazing animals. As a result, horses, swine, bison, sheep and goats are also susceptible, as are wild cervids such as whitetail deer.
Animals that are determined to have died from the disease are either burned or buried to prevent further contamination; however, it is impossible to know whether anthrax might arise or recur in a given area, and under what conditions. That's why producers are particularly well-served seeking professional input from their veterinarian, Stephens suggested.
"The good news is that there is an effective vaccine against anthrax, and it's not very expensive," she said, noting that the cost of the vaccine generally ranges from $2 to $2.50 per animal.
For media inquiries, contact:
Robin Locke, Communications Officer, CFIA
(403) 292-6733
For more information about anthrax, contact:
1-800-O-CANADA
(1-800-622-6232)
The number of dead cattle attributed to anthrax reached 273 on 59 premises in Saskatchewan as of July 25, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).
The vast majority of the cases have occurred in the northeast region of the province, where a total of 14 rural municipalities have thus far been affected. Most are located in areas that experienced heavy rainfall, flooding and excessive moisture this spring.
However, the spores that cause anthrax can potentially be buried anywhere across the prairies, according to Dr. Sandra Stephens with the Saskatoon branch of the CFIA.
"We've recently had a new case spring up in Chaplin, in the southwest part of the province, and a small outbreak in southern Manitoba," she said. "So we're still seeing a few new cases."
Stephens noted that cattle producers generally remain concerned about the disease. She is reminding farmers to speak with their veterinarians if they are particularly worried about the risk to their animals.
"Many producers are wondering whether they should vaccinate their cattle against anthrax," she said. "I would urge them to talk to their veterinarian. These professionals can provide them with the best possible advice on the matter."
Anthrax is spread by spores that can remain in the soil for long periods of time, then rise to the surface when there is excessive moisture or drought. Cattle can also be at risk when standing water dries up, revealing grazing areas that normally wouldn't be exposed. Excavation work done on some farms may likewise cause spores to emerge.
While Saskatchewan producers appear most concerned about cattle, Stephens noted that anthrax can occur in all mammals, particularly grazing animals. As a result, horses, swine, bison, sheep and goats are also susceptible, as are wild cervids such as whitetail deer.
Animals that are determined to have died from the disease are either burned or buried to prevent further contamination; however, it is impossible to know whether anthrax might arise or recur in a given area, and under what conditions. That's why producers are particularly well-served seeking professional input from their veterinarian, Stephens suggested.
"The good news is that there is an effective vaccine against anthrax, and it's not very expensive," she said, noting that the cost of the vaccine generally ranges from $2 to $2.50 per animal.
For media inquiries, contact:
Robin Locke, Communications Officer, CFIA
(403) 292-6733
For more information about anthrax, contact:
1-800-O-CANADA
(1-800-622-6232)
Monday, August 21, 2006
Junior Equestrians to Compete in Melville
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Equine enthusiasts from across the province will come together in Melville on August 19 and 20 for the Youth Equestrian Summer Games.
The event features two days of competition, and also includes the Saskatchewan Light Horse Show.
"We'll be taking registrations right up until the day of the games," said Sandy Assman, one of the games'
co-ordinators. "Of course, we would prefer if people registered early."
Youth members from 4-H, Pony Club Quarter Horse, High School Rodeo, Paint, Arabian, Appaloosa, POA Dressage and Hunter/Jumper clubs are all eligible to take part in the event.
Last year's games and show drew nearly 100 youth competitors from all around Saskatchewan, and this year's event could be even larger, Assman said. Competitors are organized by age groups (11 and under, 12-14 and 15-17).
The games are a product of the youth programs offered through the Saskatchewan Horse Federation, the provincial association dedicated to promoting the breeding and raising of better quality horses, as well as organizing equestrian activities, shows and competitions in the province.
Assman said there are many parts of the event that everyone will enjoy, but the best event for a casual observer is the costume class.
"There will be about 25 kids (with their horses) in what are starting to become very elaborate costumes," she noted. "The costume class is choreographed to music, and the kids all dress and choreograph their own rides."
One of Assman's goals when she organized the first summer games in Yorkton five years ago was to make equine competition a fun, friendly time, and to mix the youth into different categories so they could get to know people from outside their class and riding style.
"I wanted to emphasize that we are all human beings riding equines. It doesn't matter what the saddle is," she said.
Youth are randomly split into one of four teams when they arrive, and team members are encouraged to cheer one another on across the many classes of competition and age ranges, regardless of style or skill. A special medal is given to the team with the most points at the conclusion of the games.
Saskatchewan Horse Federation shows and competitions are about teaching and raising the performance standards of the industry, a message Assman said is best taught while riders are young.
The federation also offers classes year-round that emphasize horse care and learning riding styles like English and Western.
Assman said there are features of the event that are appealing to serious riders and equine experts, as well as the general public.
The competitions are free of charge to attend, and will all take place in two rings at the Melville Agricultural Park on the east side of the city.
The games wrap up on Sunday, August 20, with an awards and medal ceremony.
For more information, contact:
Sandy Assman
4-H, Youth Equestrian Summer Games Co-ordinator
Phone: (306) 697-3195
e-mail: rslakequarterhorses@sasktel.net
Equine enthusiasts from across the province will come together in Melville on August 19 and 20 for the Youth Equestrian Summer Games.
The event features two days of competition, and also includes the Saskatchewan Light Horse Show.
"We'll be taking registrations right up until the day of the games," said Sandy Assman, one of the games'
co-ordinators. "Of course, we would prefer if people registered early."
Youth members from 4-H, Pony Club Quarter Horse, High School Rodeo, Paint, Arabian, Appaloosa, POA Dressage and Hunter/Jumper clubs are all eligible to take part in the event.
Last year's games and show drew nearly 100 youth competitors from all around Saskatchewan, and this year's event could be even larger, Assman said. Competitors are organized by age groups (11 and under, 12-14 and 15-17).
The games are a product of the youth programs offered through the Saskatchewan Horse Federation, the provincial association dedicated to promoting the breeding and raising of better quality horses, as well as organizing equestrian activities, shows and competitions in the province.
Assman said there are many parts of the event that everyone will enjoy, but the best event for a casual observer is the costume class.
"There will be about 25 kids (with their horses) in what are starting to become very elaborate costumes," she noted. "The costume class is choreographed to music, and the kids all dress and choreograph their own rides."
One of Assman's goals when she organized the first summer games in Yorkton five years ago was to make equine competition a fun, friendly time, and to mix the youth into different categories so they could get to know people from outside their class and riding style.
"I wanted to emphasize that we are all human beings riding equines. It doesn't matter what the saddle is," she said.
Youth are randomly split into one of four teams when they arrive, and team members are encouraged to cheer one another on across the many classes of competition and age ranges, regardless of style or skill. A special medal is given to the team with the most points at the conclusion of the games.
Saskatchewan Horse Federation shows and competitions are about teaching and raising the performance standards of the industry, a message Assman said is best taught while riders are young.
The federation also offers classes year-round that emphasize horse care and learning riding styles like English and Western.
Assman said there are features of the event that are appealing to serious riders and equine experts, as well as the general public.
The competitions are free of charge to attend, and will all take place in two rings at the Melville Agricultural Park on the east side of the city.
The games wrap up on Sunday, August 20, with an awards and medal ceremony.
For more information, contact:
Sandy Assman
4-H, Youth Equestrian Summer Games Co-ordinator
Phone: (306) 697-3195
e-mail: rslakequarterhorses@sasktel.net
Monday, August 07, 2006
Expansion Confirmed for Clavet Canola Plant
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The Saskatchewan canola industry got a big boost last week with the announcement that Cargill Ltd. is expanding its canola processing plant in Clavet by 25 per cent.
Construction on the project will begin this fall, and is expected to conclude by the spring of 2007. When completed, it will expand the plant's processing capacity to 3,000 metric tonnes per day from its current 2,400-tonne volume.
"We firmly believe that Canada, in particular Saskatchewan, is one of the areas of the world best-suited to an expanding production of vegetable oil in the form of softseeds," said Wayne Teddy, president of Cargill's Grains and Oilseeds Supply Chain business unit for North America.
The investment, he added, will "help better position Cargill and its canola producers as a go-to source in serving the growing global demand for fuel and food applications derived from canola."
The Clavet plant crushes canola for use in margarine, salad oil and other food ingredients. Lower quality grades processed at the facility may be used in biodiesel fuel production.
Located east of Saskatoon, the plant opened in the mid-1990s, and currently employs 50 people. Already one of the largest facilities of its kind in the world, the expansion will build on a success story that has delivered value-added processing to the province's agricultural sector for the past decade.
A major presence on the international grains and oilseed market, Cargill Ltd. operates in 61 countries with 142,000 employees. Its selection of Saskatchewan as a place to expand is a vote of confidence in the province's canola industry and its agricultural producers.
"It is our commitment to expand Cargill's Canadian footprint into those areas that will deliver the greatest value to our farm and end-use customers," noted Cargill Ltd. President Len Penner. Expanding the Clavet facility, he added, will "ensure domestic consumers have access to a reliable, consistent, high quality ingredient for fuel and food."
For more information contact:
Robert Meijer, Director of Public Affairs, Cargill Ltd.
Phone: (204) 947-6370
E-mail: robert_meijer@cargill.com
www.cargill.ca
The Saskatchewan canola industry got a big boost last week with the announcement that Cargill Ltd. is expanding its canola processing plant in Clavet by 25 per cent.
Construction on the project will begin this fall, and is expected to conclude by the spring of 2007. When completed, it will expand the plant's processing capacity to 3,000 metric tonnes per day from its current 2,400-tonne volume.
"We firmly believe that Canada, in particular Saskatchewan, is one of the areas of the world best-suited to an expanding production of vegetable oil in the form of softseeds," said Wayne Teddy, president of Cargill's Grains and Oilseeds Supply Chain business unit for North America.
The investment, he added, will "help better position Cargill and its canola producers as a go-to source in serving the growing global demand for fuel and food applications derived from canola."
The Clavet plant crushes canola for use in margarine, salad oil and other food ingredients. Lower quality grades processed at the facility may be used in biodiesel fuel production.
Located east of Saskatoon, the plant opened in the mid-1990s, and currently employs 50 people. Already one of the largest facilities of its kind in the world, the expansion will build on a success story that has delivered value-added processing to the province's agricultural sector for the past decade.
A major presence on the international grains and oilseed market, Cargill Ltd. operates in 61 countries with 142,000 employees. Its selection of Saskatchewan as a place to expand is a vote of confidence in the province's canola industry and its agricultural producers.
"It is our commitment to expand Cargill's Canadian footprint into those areas that will deliver the greatest value to our farm and end-use customers," noted Cargill Ltd. President Len Penner. Expanding the Clavet facility, he added, will "ensure domestic consumers have access to a reliable, consistent, high quality ingredient for fuel and food."
For more information contact:
Robert Meijer, Director of Public Affairs, Cargill Ltd.
Phone: (204) 947-6370
E-mail: robert_meijer@cargill.com
www.cargill.ca
Whet Your Appetite for the First Annual "Taste of the Southwest"
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Get ready for the mouth-watering taste sensations of the southwest! We're not referring to tortillas and tacos: we're talking about Saskatchewan's southwest.
A number of partners have come together to create the first annual "Taste of the Southwest" gala that will take place at the Swift Current Exhibition Grounds on August 12. The event is a part of the Fun Fest Weekend in Swift Current.
"We have a lot of unique products that are produced or grown in this region. This is great way to showcase them," said Shawn Hermanson, an Agri-Business Development Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
More than 14 producers, processors, caterers and restaurants from throughout the region have already signed up, offering a wide variety of tantalizing products, ranging from New York Meat Sticks (the missing link between beef jerky and a hamburger) from Classic Meats of Fox Valley, to cinnamon buns from the House of Heart Café in Cabri.
"We still have space available if there are other producers who want to take part," said Hermanson.
Once your tummy is full of fine southwest fare, you can enjoy the entertainment, or wash it all down in the beer gardens.
The event runs from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Stockade Building at the Swift Current Exhibition Grounds.
The Taste of the Southwest is hosted by a committee consisting of Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Regional Economic and Co-operative Development, the Southwest REDA, Southwest Community Futures, the Cypress Hills REDA, the Swift Current Agricultural and Exhibition Association, and local producers.
For more information or to register a food booth, please contact Keleah Herron, Community Economic Development Officer, Southwest REDA, at www.southwestreda.ca or (306) 778-4243.
For more information, contact:
Shawn Hermanson
Agri-Business Development Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 778-8216
E-mail: shermanson@agr.gov.sk.ca
Get ready for the mouth-watering taste sensations of the southwest! We're not referring to tortillas and tacos: we're talking about Saskatchewan's southwest.
A number of partners have come together to create the first annual "Taste of the Southwest" gala that will take place at the Swift Current Exhibition Grounds on August 12. The event is a part of the Fun Fest Weekend in Swift Current.
"We have a lot of unique products that are produced or grown in this region. This is great way to showcase them," said Shawn Hermanson, an Agri-Business Development Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
More than 14 producers, processors, caterers and restaurants from throughout the region have already signed up, offering a wide variety of tantalizing products, ranging from New York Meat Sticks (the missing link between beef jerky and a hamburger) from Classic Meats of Fox Valley, to cinnamon buns from the House of Heart Café in Cabri.
"We still have space available if there are other producers who want to take part," said Hermanson.
Once your tummy is full of fine southwest fare, you can enjoy the entertainment, or wash it all down in the beer gardens.
The event runs from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Stockade Building at the Swift Current Exhibition Grounds.
The Taste of the Southwest is hosted by a committee consisting of Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Regional Economic and Co-operative Development, the Southwest REDA, Southwest Community Futures, the Cypress Hills REDA, the Swift Current Agricultural and Exhibition Association, and local producers.
For more information or to register a food booth, please contact Keleah Herron, Community Economic Development Officer, Southwest REDA, at www.southwestreda.ca or (306) 778-4243.
For more information, contact:
Shawn Hermanson
Agri-Business Development Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 778-8216
E-mail: shermanson@agr.gov.sk.ca
Extended Agenda for Tenth Annual Western Canada Feedlot
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The tenth annual Western Canada Feedlot Management School (WCFMS) will feature more than a dozen in-depth sessions running over four days, July 31 to August 3 at the University of Saskatchewan.
The school is designed for those in the cattle feeding business, considering expansion, or just getting started.
"The school provides a great learning environment because you have people coming from all sides of the business. It's very hands on. You get both classroom type presentations and the opportunity to get out into the feedlot to apply some of that learning in the real world," said Sandy Russell, a beef economist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
"It's a highly sought after school. Every year we have had full attendance, and it looks like we will be full again this year," said Russell.
Session topics include: Evaluating Feeding Alternatives to Maximize Profit, What Cattle Buyers Look for in Feeder and Slaughter Cattle, and Growth Promotion and Implants - How to Maximize Your Gains.
The WCFMS is a direct response to the need in the cattle industry for knowledgeable feedlot operators who can adapt to changes in production and marketing practices. Experts from industry and the fields of research and development will deliver sessions on topics that are at the forefront of the feeding industry.
The WCFMS is organized by the Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association, the University of Saskatchewan Department of Animal and Poultry Science, and Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
For more information, contact:
Jamie Blacklock,
General Manager
Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association
Phone: (306) 933-5570
E-mail: jamie@saskcattle.com
www.saskcattle.com
Sandy Russell
Beef Economist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 382-2333
E-mail: srussell@agr.gov.sk.ca
The tenth annual Western Canada Feedlot Management School (WCFMS) will feature more than a dozen in-depth sessions running over four days, July 31 to August 3 at the University of Saskatchewan.
The school is designed for those in the cattle feeding business, considering expansion, or just getting started.
"The school provides a great learning environment because you have people coming from all sides of the business. It's very hands on. You get both classroom type presentations and the opportunity to get out into the feedlot to apply some of that learning in the real world," said Sandy Russell, a beef economist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
"It's a highly sought after school. Every year we have had full attendance, and it looks like we will be full again this year," said Russell.
Session topics include: Evaluating Feeding Alternatives to Maximize Profit, What Cattle Buyers Look for in Feeder and Slaughter Cattle, and Growth Promotion and Implants - How to Maximize Your Gains.
The WCFMS is a direct response to the need in the cattle industry for knowledgeable feedlot operators who can adapt to changes in production and marketing practices. Experts from industry and the fields of research and development will deliver sessions on topics that are at the forefront of the feeding industry.
The WCFMS is organized by the Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association, the University of Saskatchewan Department of Animal and Poultry Science, and Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
For more information, contact:
Jamie Blacklock,
General Manager
Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association
Phone: (306) 933-5570
E-mail: jamie@saskcattle.com
www.saskcattle.com
Sandy Russell
Beef Economist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 382-2333
E-mail: srussell@agr.gov.sk.ca
Scholarship Recipient "An Inspiration"
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
"She's an inspiration."
That's how the Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Association of Agriculture Societies and Exhibitions (SAASE) describes the first recipient of the Clark Lewis Memorial Scholarship.
SAASE Executive Director Glen Duck says Andrea Hemsley from Sylvania (southeast of Melfort) was a stand-out among a strong field of contenders.
"We had a very difficult decision in selecting the first recipient of this scholarship. Agriculture societies across the province selected only the best from their regions, so the by the time we had to choose from the final 13 applicants, we were working from a list of outstanding young leaders," said Duck.
Hemsley, who is pursuing an education degree at the University of Regina, is blind.
"Andrea is heavily involved in her community and with the Golburn Agriculture Society. She has been an inspiration to her classmates and her community for how she has faced her disability," said Duck.
The Clark Lewis Memorial Scholarship was created earlier this year to recognize the agricultural leader who passed away in March of 2005. The successful applicant receives $1,500.
Clark Lewis had a long history with SAASE. He was an active board member of the predecessor of SAASE, the Saskatchewan Agricultural Societies Association (SASA), was a member of the Minister's Review Committee in 1986, and served on the steering committee responsible for the amalgamation of the SASA and the Saskatchewan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions. Through numerous re-elections to the board by his peers, and until his retirement in 1995, Clark served on all committees and offices of SAASE.
The legacy of his leadership style of patient perseverance and dedicated service remains with agricultural societies and exhibitions throughout Saskatchewan. It was felt by the SAASE Board of Directors that the immense contributions and dedication of Clark Lewis to the organization could best be honoured through a scholarship bearing his name.
To fund the award on an ongoing basis, SAASE is soliciting contributions from agricultural societies to form a pool of money from which the interest will be utilized annually. In addition to these donations, SAASE will be using 50/50 lottery revenue, as well as money from a silent auction at its convention, to support the scholarship on a yearly basis.
For more information, contact:
Glen Duck, SAASE Executive Director
Phone: (306) 565-2121
"She's an inspiration."
That's how the Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Association of Agriculture Societies and Exhibitions (SAASE) describes the first recipient of the Clark Lewis Memorial Scholarship.
SAASE Executive Director Glen Duck says Andrea Hemsley from Sylvania (southeast of Melfort) was a stand-out among a strong field of contenders.
"We had a very difficult decision in selecting the first recipient of this scholarship. Agriculture societies across the province selected only the best from their regions, so the by the time we had to choose from the final 13 applicants, we were working from a list of outstanding young leaders," said Duck.
Hemsley, who is pursuing an education degree at the University of Regina, is blind.
"Andrea is heavily involved in her community and with the Golburn Agriculture Society. She has been an inspiration to her classmates and her community for how she has faced her disability," said Duck.
The Clark Lewis Memorial Scholarship was created earlier this year to recognize the agricultural leader who passed away in March of 2005. The successful applicant receives $1,500.
Clark Lewis had a long history with SAASE. He was an active board member of the predecessor of SAASE, the Saskatchewan Agricultural Societies Association (SASA), was a member of the Minister's Review Committee in 1986, and served on the steering committee responsible for the amalgamation of the SASA and the Saskatchewan Association of Fairs and Exhibitions. Through numerous re-elections to the board by his peers, and until his retirement in 1995, Clark served on all committees and offices of SAASE.
The legacy of his leadership style of patient perseverance and dedicated service remains with agricultural societies and exhibitions throughout Saskatchewan. It was felt by the SAASE Board of Directors that the immense contributions and dedication of Clark Lewis to the organization could best be honoured through a scholarship bearing his name.
To fund the award on an ongoing basis, SAASE is soliciting contributions from agricultural societies to form a pool of money from which the interest will be utilized annually. In addition to these donations, SAASE will be using 50/50 lottery revenue, as well as money from a silent auction at its convention, to support the scholarship on a yearly basis.
For more information, contact:
Glen Duck, SAASE Executive Director
Phone: (306) 565-2121
SIAST Meeting Demand for Meat Processing Tradespeople
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) is offering training courses for a variety of trades needed by the province's expanding meat processing sector.
The closure of the U.S. border to Canadian cattle during the recent BSE crisis was a stark demonstration of Canada's need to enhance its domestic slaughter capacity. With the most stringent border restrictions now lifted, the livestock sector is once again on the rebound, but the need to slaughter and process more of our own livestock remains.
The continued growth in domestic livestock processing is creating a big demand for tradespeople possessing a variety of skills needed in the industry. Unfortunately, there are not enough qualified people to meet that demand.
This has generated increased opportunity - particularly for meat cutters, slaughterers and processors - in several jurisdictions, particularly Saskatchewan. SIAST responded by creating courses to meet the specific needs of the processing industry.
To learn the meat cutter trade through apprenticeship, for example, individuals enrol in a course that has them working 85 per cent of the time (1,800 hours) with a certified journeyperson, earning while they learn. This is followed by 15 per cent (eight weeks) spent studying the technical aspects of the trade at the SIAST Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon. The process is repeated for three years to achieve journeyperson status. SIAST is constantly accepting applications for these courses. The classroom portion begins in August and the practicum begins in January.
"The BSE crisis taught us to put more emphasis on handling our own animals rather than shipping them elsewhere," said Jim Moldenhauer, Chair of the Meat Cutter Trade Board. "Industry expansion opens up great opportunities for Saskatchewan people to build careers in the skilled trades, such as meat cutting, that support this growth."
For more information on the requirements or enrolment process for these courses, contact the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission at 1-877-363-0536 or visit their website at www.saskapprenticeship.com (click on "designated trades").
For more information, contact:
Jim Moldenhauer, Chair
Meat Cutter Trade Board
Phone: 306-955-2537
The Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) is offering training courses for a variety of trades needed by the province's expanding meat processing sector.
The closure of the U.S. border to Canadian cattle during the recent BSE crisis was a stark demonstration of Canada's need to enhance its domestic slaughter capacity. With the most stringent border restrictions now lifted, the livestock sector is once again on the rebound, but the need to slaughter and process more of our own livestock remains.
The continued growth in domestic livestock processing is creating a big demand for tradespeople possessing a variety of skills needed in the industry. Unfortunately, there are not enough qualified people to meet that demand.
This has generated increased opportunity - particularly for meat cutters, slaughterers and processors - in several jurisdictions, particularly Saskatchewan. SIAST responded by creating courses to meet the specific needs of the processing industry.
To learn the meat cutter trade through apprenticeship, for example, individuals enrol in a course that has them working 85 per cent of the time (1,800 hours) with a certified journeyperson, earning while they learn. This is followed by 15 per cent (eight weeks) spent studying the technical aspects of the trade at the SIAST Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon. The process is repeated for three years to achieve journeyperson status. SIAST is constantly accepting applications for these courses. The classroom portion begins in August and the practicum begins in January.
"The BSE crisis taught us to put more emphasis on handling our own animals rather than shipping them elsewhere," said Jim Moldenhauer, Chair of the Meat Cutter Trade Board. "Industry expansion opens up great opportunities for Saskatchewan people to build careers in the skilled trades, such as meat cutting, that support this growth."
For more information on the requirements or enrolment process for these courses, contact the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission at 1-877-363-0536 or visit their website at www.saskapprenticeship.com (click on "designated trades").
For more information, contact:
Jim Moldenhauer, Chair
Meat Cutter Trade Board
Phone: 306-955-2537
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