Glenda-Lee Vossler

Representatives from Argus Media and LeftField Commodity Research recently toured the Prairies to get a better idea on this years crop quality and production. 

The Western Canadian crop tour involved two cars traveling about 2000 kilometres each, visiting about 40 farms during the first week of August.

Jonathan Dreidger, Vice President of LeftField Commodity Research says based on producer comments and random plot counts they have been able to come up with some early yield estimates.

The Conservative Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Agri-Food and Food Security has been busy criss-crossing the country meeting with producers.

John Barlow says he's been trying to hit every province and this week they're in Atlantic Canada speaking to producers.

He says a key topic of concern everywhere is the Liberal's Fertilizer Reduction policy.

Harvest activities are just getting underway across the Prairies.

Grain Market Analyst Brennan Turner says he's not a big fan of selling direct off the combine unless you have to as prices are generally lower.

He says when it comes to the harvest the first few fields are usually pretty good, adding that some farmers have been pleasantly surprised by what the yield monitors are showing.

The first estimates from Stats Can are expected in a couple of weeks.

Meantime, when it comes to the wheat market there are a number of factors at play. 

The National Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) is being presented tonight as part of the Canadian Cattle Association's Semi-Annual Meetings in British Columbia.

TESA recognizes producers who go above and beyond standard industry conservation practices, and set positive examples for other cattle producers and the general public.

Producers are nominated at a Provincial level with the winners moving on to the National Award with this year's nominees representing B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes.

The Canadian Cattle Association is pleased to see the increased funding for the next Ag Policy Framework. 

The agreement includes $500 million dollars in new funding, $250 million dollars of which, has been earmarked for a Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP).

Tyler Fulton, an Officer with the CCA, says that's a program the cattle industry is well positioned to take advantage of.

Ryder Lee is headed to Calgary to take on the role of General Manager with the Canadian Cattle Association beginning September 1st.

Dennis Laycraft, the CCA Executive Vice-President Dennis Laycraft says Ryder brings an exceptional range of expertise, with a strong industry background, years of work on agriculture policy, and advanced management experience.

Lee says he's looking forward to helping producers from a new role, but admits it is still a little bittersweet.

Future contracts for the majority of grain commodities moved lower following the release of this week's World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report.

Those same contracts that dropped early in the week, started showing some strength again on Thursday.

Grain Market Analyst Brennan Turner says a number of factors are contributing to the market changes including news that the ending stocks came in higher than expected.

Formerly, the Canadian Cattlemen's Association was officially rebranded to better include all aspects of the industry.

Reg Schellenberg, CCA President says for 90 years, CCA has been the voice of beef farmers and ranchers across the country.

"The organization has grown to include the 60,000 members we represent today. It is important that our name, logo and brand also grow and be reflective of how our organization has evolved."

Tyler Fulton an officer with the Canadian Cattle Association says the group includes more than just ranchers and cow calf operators.

Exhibitors for Canada's Farm Show in Regina are busy putting the finishing touches on their displays, making sure all the equipment is washed, shined and ready to go for opening day.

Show hours are 9 am to 5 pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, and 9 am to 4 pm on Thursday. 

"The biggest stage for the best in Ag" is the theme for Canada's Farm Show as it encourages farmers to get out of the dirt and come to town to see the latest in dryland farm equipment and technology. 

This year Canada's Farm Show celebrates 44 years.

The crew is busy preparing for Canada's Farm Show, taking place in Regina June 21 - 23.

Show Manager Shirley Janeczko says they're excited to be back with an in-person event.

"It seems to have been a long time since we arranged an in person show. The excitement here in our offices is nothing I've ever experienced before. So I'm just thrilled about it."

This year marks the show's 44th Anniversary and features a brand new indoor footprint with more than 1.5 million square feet of indoor space.