Farmers Not Too Concerned About Lack Of Spring Temps

Apr 05, 2018

Farmers are gearing up for spring seeding.

Anne Kirk of Manitoba Agriculture says producers usually get out into the field towards the end of April, although there have been years when seeding has started around the middle of the month.

While the colder weather seems to be lasting longer than normal, Kirk says farmers aren't panicking yet.

"I think at this point in time people aren't too concerned because we're still right at the beginning of April and things can turn around pretty quick. We also don't have a lot of snow on the ground so once the snow melts, it's not going to take that long for the ground to dry up enough to get equipment into the fields."

Source : Steinbachonline

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.