Free trade declared dead in the United States

The U.S. has imposed general tariffs on steel, aluminum and automobiles and copper tariffs will begin in early August

In order to provide some relief from the threat of 35 per cent tariffs, Bangladesh has decided to sign a memorandum of understanding on wheat trade with the U.S. The country has agreed to purchase 700,000 tonnes of U.S. wheat annually for the next five years. Photo: file

‘I am hopeful,’ Saskatchewan premier says about Chinese trade

Tariffs, trade top of mind at recent Agriculture in Motion show

While there’s more to be done, Saskatchewan premier Scott Moe says he’s hopeful trade relations with China can be mended.

“I’ll give credit to prime minister Carney for the engagement that he has undertaken,” Moe said in an interview at the recent Ag in Motion farm show near Saskatoon.

Kochia spreading unexpectedly in Alberta

The invasive weed is now being spotted further north than ever before

Farmers in Alberta have a growing problem on their hands, as a notorious weed has started making its way north through the province.

The rapid and relentless spread of kochia, the highly adaptable and increasingly resistant weed, is moving north and taking root in places scientists thought it never would.

Land crash warning rejected

Critics respond to report suggesting price correction, saying farmland remains a solid investment

The largest owner of cropland in Canada isn’t buying the idea that farmland values are overdue for a correction.

He says that’s because technical analysis — where market watchers use trends, patterns and mathematical models to predict future price movements — doesn’t apply to agricultural land.

Rosebud postpones road construction due to weather

Due to the cold, rainy weather, Wheatland County has postponed road work in Rosebud.

County crews began upgrading Township Road 272 in July, intending to improve road safety and address concerns about flooding.

However, the recent weather has led to construction being postponed until the week of Aug. 4.

"Traffic detours and access arrangements will be in place during construction," wrote the county. "Please follow all posted signage."

Strathmore under Severe Thunderstorm Watch

We may be ending off the week with a thunderstorm.

On Friday (July 25) morning, Environment Canada (EC) issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for Wheatland County, including Strathmore, Lyalta, and Carseland.

"Conditions are favourable over southern Alberta for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy downpours," wrote EC on its website. 

Local artist raises literacy awareness through art

A hand-painted rain barrel fetched $150 at a silent auction.

The Strathmore Municipal Library held the auction for the rain barrel on July 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kinsmen Park. 

Donated by Strathmore Home Hardware, the barrel was painted by local artist Dan Belanger and featured a water-themed landscape mural.

Proceeds from the auction will go towards supporting library programs. 

Belanger, who has had a paintbrush in hand for the past 10 years, said art and reading are deeply connected for him.